Sir.-Having read Julia Bone's views on hedgerows in last Friday's Gazette, I would confirm that my sentiments mimic hers exactly.

I am horrified each time I drive along the Thornycroft/Winchester Road dual carriageway, and also along the A340, at the way these hedges have been hacked.

Surely the council should ensure it employs people who have pride in their work.

I was under the impression that Basingstoke and Deane has a policy to preserve the hedgerows in Hampshire to encourage wild flowers and birds etc.

If the hedges continue to be hacked back in this way, they will eventually disappear altogether, consequently having a disastrous effect on the wildlife.

-Antoinette Peace, Elmhurst, Tadley.