Sir, I write again on the subject of archaeology in Kendal in reply to the further letter from Dr Richard Newman the new county archaeologist (Letters, October 25).

I must thank him for taking the trouble to reply to a letter that was really aimed at another local government department.

I do hope that the quick response portends well for the future of archaeology in Kendal and South Lakeland, which has needed a much livelier response than that demonstrated in the past, when so many opportunities have been lost and thus so much information not obtained.

It is still of great interest, though, as to why the site of the new block of flats in Chapel Lane was developed without archaeology, and I am not blaming his department for the matter.

Dr Newman has kindly agreed to give the local group of the Cumberland and Westmorland Archaeology Society his time when he addresses us in Kendal Town Hall on Monday, January 6, at 7.30pm, on the work of the county archaeologist.

It should prove an interesting evening as Dr Newman has promised a question and answer session as well.

(Non-members are welcome at a fee of £ 2).

On the same letters page, Tom Clare puts me in my place as well in pointing out that traffic is much more important in today's Kendal than archaeology, although a right to respond to perceived wrongs in any subject remains a precious virtue in this society of ours.

One could write all day about the traffic problem but I think that the narrow minds which caused the Kendal traffic problem still haunt the corridors of power in South Lakeland District Council when it comes to matters archaeological.

John Marsh

Kendal