WALKING through the Meadows last week, I saw an energetic spaniel running around freely. I paused to mention to its owner that all dogs should be on leads in that part of the Meadows but that the other side of the river — just over the footbridge a mere few yards away — owners could allow their dogs to roam freely off the lead.

She said her dog had never frightened anyone, was unconcerned that she was ignoring all the signs and notices and was thus breaking the law and did not agree with me that some children might be scared of a dog at large.

Am I alone in thinking her selfish and irresponsible attitude causes damage to good relations between park users? Being midday and the weather spring-like, there were several toddlers in the Meadows on the play equipment.

It is her attitude, along with those owners who don't clear up after their dogs have made a mess, which might lead to a total ban on all dogs in the Meadows, which would be a shame.

Report me, were her parting words. I thought no, I'll do better than that: I'll write to the Times!

M J Chaplin

Wessex Court

Tavistock