We were pleased to see an attractive photograph of Piltdown Pond in the May 30 issue of The Mid-Sussex Leader, encouraging members of the public to spend their leisure time at this beauty spot.

Visitors no doubt appreciate the free access which we, as local residents, also value.

Although the pond is owned by Piltdown Golf Club, it has, for many years, been a recreational amenity for all.

It is important this tradition is maintained, especially for serious anglers who are keen to pursue their sport in a peaceful setting.

But the privilege is sometimes abused by a minority who, ignoring the lack of sanitary facilities, camp overnight, light fires, cut and burn the nearby timber, deposit rubbish and occasionally leave evidence of drug-taking.

Recently, cars and camper vans have been parked in places one would have thought inaccessible to vehicles.

This not only spoils the tranquillity of the scene, it damages the banks in a way which may seriously shorten the life of the pond.

Such concerns ought to be a matter for the police and the Environment Agency but it is unable to act.

The golf club does its best but neither it nor local people can provide 24-hour surveillance.

One solution, which we understand the golf club would support, would be to form a Piltdown Angling Club.

We are informed the Honorary Secretary, Piltdown Golf Club, Uckfleld TN22 3XB, would be pleased to hear from all those, particularly anglers, who are keen to maintain this beauty spot for the benefit of all.

-Ian Robertson, Dick Glynne-Jones, Denis Kenward (Piltdown residents)