WHILE walking, slipping and sliding my way into town along High Northgate and Northgate, in Darlington, I was amazed to witness community payback workers clearing the snow and ice.

Alas, it was not from the pavements.

They were clearing the car park of the Engineers Club – a car park that is hardly ever used, owing to drink driving laws.

Why?

How is this helping the community?

I am sure they could have been of more use put to work clearing the hospital car park or old people’s homes.

J Strickland, Darlington.