I have just returned from a short walk on the Hills during which I managed to avoid stepping in all but one of the 17 piles of fresh dog faeces I passed en route.

The one escaped my notice because my attention had been distracted by another pile which I did manage to avoid!

What's up with these dog owners? It would be nice to be able to walk on the hill paths while looking at the view rather than having to watch every step you take.

I gather there is talk of re-introducing cattle to the northern hills; what a splendid idea! At least cow-pats are relatively inoffensive and quite easy to spot; also cows serve a genuinely useful purpose.

Richard Walwyn, Malvern College, Malvern.