Sir – Today, while waiting for my bus, I was passed by five separate parties of visitors, each neatly labelled and with the necessary supervisors.

The quantities of people varied from 20 to more than 80. Their behaviour was in no way offensive, however, in every case, they walked at least three abreast and frequently more, occupying the whole width of the pavement. When they reached a junction, they formed what can only be described as a scrum before crossing the road.

Their passing forced all other pedestrians either to wait until they had passed (some time, in the case of the group of 80), or risk their lives walking in the road to pass them.

I have no objection whatever to people visiting all the glories which Oxford possesses, but if they could be encouraged to travel in groups of no more than 10 or 12, and no more than two abreast, this would allow all to pass, prevent delay, inconvenience and danger, and show respect for those who live and work in Oxford and who also need to use the pavements.

J. Shadbolt, Oxford