CHRIS Gale, (Postbag, January 10 issue) is right to ask under whose authority Chard High Street was closed, and who picks up the bill for cleaning up after the Cotley Harriers held their Boxing Day meet. I hope he gets an answer!

I was also in Chard that day, and witnessed a fire engine, siren blaring, drive through the centre of the High Street. What would have happened if it had been ten minutes later? It certainly would not have been able to get through the horses and hounds surrounded by their supporters as the riders knocked back their stirrup cups.

It is outrageous that huntsmen should be able to close a town centre for over half an hour.

It is time to put an end to Boxing Day meets in the market towns of Somerset. Just as it is time to close the loopholes in the Act.

HELEN WEEKS, West Coker, Yeovil