I am very glad to read that our MP, Tim Loughton, is calling for better disabled access to the beaches of Worthing and Lancing (The Argus, March 27).

The rest of us could do with some help as well. The environment agency appears to view the sea as public enemy number one, to be kept out of reach of the public at all times, and finds those of us who enjoy the sea, like to approach it, walk by it and even swim in it, incomprehensible.

Following last summer's work on sea defences, the small part of the beach which is open again has a steep bank from the promenade to the sea and the only way down is straight down, slithering through the pebbles.

Coming up is even more hazardous. Ropes and crampons would be helpful. Dare we hope for steps or a slope with a handrail? No?

We need to be fit in Lancing. To the north of us, a footbridge has been erected over the A27.

For the disabled in wheelchairs there is a ramp but most disabled people are not in wheelchairs and many of the elderly population of the area will find crossing the road has now become a major challenge.

They can walk up the ramp, hoping they do not encounter a rapidly descending wheelchair or bicycle, or climb 42 steps to the top, cross the bridge and down 42 steps on the other side.

Then, for whatever reason they have crossed the road - a stroll on the Downs, a visit to the local church, or even just to buy newspapers, sweets or fish and chips - you have to return.

That is 168 steps just to go across the road and back.

And you can forget nipping through gaps in traffic - a tall wire fence has been installed down the centre of the road and the traffic lights at the old crossing have been removed. It's climb or forget it. A pleasant residential area has been turned into an obstacle course.

-GM Agate, Lancing