Sir – Surely something is wrong, as somebody once said. With reference to the story "Calls to curb dogs" (RTT, September 19) isn’t it about time the gentleman who runs Richmond Park took a reality check?

Everyone who walks dogs in the park understands the following: • It is rare for a dog to attack a deer.

• Keep away from deer. They are dangerous.

• Dogs rarely attack swans.

• Swans are vicious creatures who can attack and kill dogs.

• All responsible dog owners dislike loony dog owners intensely.

A couple of weeks back I approached two policemen who were patrolling Pen Ponds telling dog owners to keep their pooches on leads and not allow them in the water.

Just try telling a Labrador or setter: "Sorry, old boy, no swimming today".

I mentioned Simon Richards, the park manager, to the boys in blue and they grinned widely and hung their heads in embarrassment before shuffling away muttering the infamous, "We’re just doing our jobs, sir".

Then one said: "But we know where you are coming from."

The usually invisible Mr Richards has a green agenda regarding the park.

If there’s a whiff of fog he closes gates faster than a farmer protecting his prize bull, causing turmoil in the entire Richmond area.

Couldn’t Mr Richards be on the level for just once in his low-profile career?

Dogs, we know well, are not the problem. It’s people, Mr Richards. People abusing their powers.

IVAN WATERMAN
Queens Road
Richmond