AM I the only person who is bombarded on all sides by the noise of garden machinery? Strimmers, lawnmowers, hedge trimmers – loud and invasive.

I can remember when all you heard with the birdsong was the gentle clip of shears and sonorous purr of the push mower. Please, please could someone invent silent machines so that we can once more look forward to sitting by the pond listening to the tinkling fountain?

Incidentally, I don’t use noisy machines, but I still reckon I’ve got a lovely garden. I just won’t be able to enjoy it.

Krysia Akers,

6 Ashkirk Terrace, Ashkirk, Selkirkshire.