I ask readers to help me prevent the frogs, toads and newts in the Rotunda Pond, by the Rotunda Cafe in Preston Park, Brighton, being cruelly treated by children.

I have spoken to Alan Griffiths, the grounds maintenance inspector, who informs me I am not the first person to be concerned about this ill-treatment of wildlife.

Mr Griffiths has told me a sign is to be erected, warning children to abide by the bylaws within the park area but, as far as I am aware, no sign has

yet materialised.

Realistically, this is not going to be very effective unless it is policed. Some parents seem to be indifferent in respect of their children's behaviour and teachers are evidently not teaching them to respect all forms of life.

I suggested a park keeper or community warden could be employed to stop the abuse of wildlife taking place. If finances cannot run to this, I question the value of this amenity, which I find to be non-functional and unpleasant to the eye. It would be better to re-home the wildlife and fill in the pond.

This is a very serious animal welfare issue at a time when the frog and toad populations are on the decrease and some newts have become endangered species.

-David Hammond, North Court, Hassocks