I AM rarely surprised that opinions are expressed that could impact (adversely?) on others from people who admit to having little knowledge of the subject. In fairness to the lady extolling a reduced speed limit from 50mph on the A492 Bowness to Newby Bridge road along Windermere’s lakeside, she does admit this (Letters, July 26, 'Limit needs to be lower').

Unlike her, however, I use this road a lot, and I am informed that most of the accidents are shunts, generally caused by someone travelling slowly or erratically. When the road is traffic free, which can occur believe it or not, achieving 50mph safely is not difficult.

I use this road for business and pleasure, and there is nothing more frustrating than travelling behind a car that travels at 20 mph or less, and this is not uncommon.

The concentration of vehicles stacking up behind them is an accident waiting to happen, with few opportunities to overtake. In fact, it really does not matter what the speed limit is here as the traffic does, believe it or not, regulate itself.

However, the lady missed the most ludicrous situation along this road and this relates to the numerous coaches that use it, plus double decker buses.

The latter are invariably driven by professionals who are familiar with the journey - the coaches are not and their drivers just leave you speechless at their antics. Perhaps worst are wagons with a six wheel trailer though!

Speed limits are just that - not a requirement to travel at them. I am sure no-one would condone driving at 30mph through a town centre when parked cars and children are about, but we cannot be regulated to a speed through these at the 5mph limit required in Morrisons car park!

In conclusion, please do not seek to reduce driving ability and skills even more than exists already.

M. Edwards

Staveley