MADAM, The notifiable and notorious invasive plant Japanese Knotweed has been spotted on the banks of the Wye by Wilton Bridge. It is already seven feet tall and spreading.

Himalayan Balsam, another nightmare plant, is also becoming widespread on the riverbank and behind the sports field. Has anyone notified the Environment Agency?

What impact might it have on the transfer of assets, specifically grass cutting i.e. with a notifiable plant in a public place should the Council have removed it first.

If the riverbank had been strimmed and cleared of weeds and other plants these invasive species might not have taken root – with a spin-off improvement of the river view. Strimming and clearing the bank would still be of huge benefit to those who enjoy one of the town's major assets and tourist attractions.

David Callinan, Ross