BARRIERS along the riverside in Durham City and better lighting – what nonsense (Echo, Apr 16).

A sophisticated CCTV system manned 24-hours-a-day with a loudhaler warning device would not only monitor intoxicated students but would also shout warnings to them and so it would be invaluable as a preventative security measure.

You cannot put a value on one life, but five – the human cost must far outweigh any monetary costs incurred in installing such measures.

It is totally criminal and unacceptable not to take action now by using the latest technology to stop this loss of young lives.

This would do so without the use of hideous, unsightly and non-effective barriers which would make the river off limits to all. 

John Cumberland, Rushyford.