Step up a gear on e-scooter menace

Swindon Borough Council wants us to shop in the town centre rather than go to other towns and cities nearby.

Recently, I ventured into town for the first time in 18 months. It's supposed to be a pedestrianised zone but, you wouldn't think so.

I lost count of the number of people I saw riding on cycles and e-scooters. A lot were going fast, darting around shoppers.

In all honesty, I'm sick and tired of hearing both the council and police telling us, time and time again, that these people should not be doing it. They continually remind us of the current law. Both know it's a big problem that's getting worse by the day. Yet, nothing is ever done about it.

No person either in a pedestrianised zone or on any pavement should be subjected to the potential danger of being hit by a cyclist or e-scooter when going about their daily lives. It's totally unacceptable!

I'm a keen cyclist myself. I recognise the importance of getting people out of cars to make our environment better.

If cycles and e-scooters are used in accordance with the law, then fine.

But, in a lot of instances they're not.

In my opinion, it's just paper talk from both the council and the police because no enforcement action is ever taken.

They need to step up to the mark. It's now time for action before someone gets seriously injured or dare I say it, even killed.

Alan Wilson

Shapwick Close

Swindon

Have a view on the news? Email a letter to the editor via letters@swindonadvertiser.co.uk or follow the link here.

Support for students at exam results time

The last year has been incredibly tough for young people with disruption to the way they learn, exam cancellations and changes to the assessment process.

At an anxious time already, many will be experiencing increased worry and stress as they prepare to receive their A-Level and GCSE results.

Between April and June this year, our Childline service delivered 1,812 counselling sessions to young people across the UK about concerns relating to exams or exams being cancelled.

It is important for young people to know that they aren’t alone, especially if they are disappointed with their grades. Instead, that they are encouraged to share any concerns or worries with their friends or a trusted adult.

Parents and carers can help by reassuring their child that they are there to listen to what they might be feeling and to help them to take the time to think about what to do next.

There are lots of places to get advice and support, including Childline, where young people can discuss their anxiety and look at potential next steps.

Childline is here for every child and young person and our specially trained counsellors are ready 24/7 to discuss exam worries and other concerns free on 0800 1111 or at www.childline.org.uk.

Emma Motherwell

NSPCC Local Campaigns Manager

Have a view on the news? Email a letter to the editor via letters@swindonadvertiser.co.uk or follow the link here.