FOLLOWING the article detailing residents' serious concerns about the flooding in Anderton Lane, Whitchurch, (Times, January 9), I wanted to let everyone know that the sheep netting, plus ten tons of stones, which had built up against it during the December 23 storm, have been removed from the Tiddy Brook.

The water level under the bridge has dropped by about two feet which has reduced the likelihood of the lane flooding there again in the short term.

The Environment Agency, Devon County Council Highways, the West Devon Borough Council flood officer and Cllr Debo Sellis deserve thanks for their action in getting this particular issue sorted out quickly.

However, this does not solve the ongoing flooding problem.

Until the second obstruction is dealt with (the bank of the brook, built up when the footpath was constructed), the Tiddy Brook is still prone to back up and flood frequently across the lane and footpath, as it did four times over the Christmas period.

I have been assured that the Environment Agency is working on finding a solution, but I will continue to pursue the issue until it is solved, however long it takes.   

It is essential that the effects of future heavy rainfall and flooding in Anderton Lane are controlled, for the safety and convenience of residents, pedestrians and motorists. 

Regular clearance of drains and gullies, plus a quick-response service when necessary, and modification of the close-boarded fence along the edge of the lane near the railway bridge, would really help the excess rain and overflowing brook water to drain off the road quickly.

I have asked the local councillors to push for this work to be done as a priority. 

For centuries it has been a fundamental responsibility of local authorities to keep the highways well maintained and there is no excuse for this to be neglected or cut back. 

If you have concerns about any local issues such as this, I would urge you to contact your councillors.

We residents elect them to work on our behalf, and we must let them know what is going on and what we think about it. 

Alison Wright

Whitchurch Road

Tavistock.