I WAS in the Southampton area around 23-28 May.

On May 26 I was in the Netley area and walked from Netley cricket field along the shoreline in the direction of Victoria Park coming back on land at the entrance of Victoria Park.

On the opposite side of the road I noticed a sign “Sophie’s Pond”, so crossed to take a look. As I got to the entrance gate I saw two large rats run from the roadside edge across to green foliage next to the visitor hut.

I opened the gate to go inside and within less than one minute saw four more! One ran straight between my legs! Considering a notice was advertising a session on duck feeding, there is obviously a health and safety problem as rats carry diseases.

This was 8.30pm approx. in the evening. I also observed a notice to Victoria Park entrance stating a large investment to the same.

I would be obliged if you could contact the authority responsible to spend some money on exterminating those rodents and bring it to their attention as they pose a health risk, especially to children.

Mr P Bradbury, Coventry