I refer to recent letters about the so-called tipping at Waterstock Golf Club.

The definition of ordinary soil as waste does seem ridiculous.

Surely taking something someone wishes to be rid of and turning it to good use is merely recycling?

Soil covered in grass is clearly not an eyesore.

Oxfordshire features such as Jarn Mound at Boars Hill and Folly Hill in Faringdon are important local features made of just such material and are considered local landmarks, and are much more visibly intrusive than a few raised greens on a golf course.

People like Michael Tyce, chairman of Waterstock Parish Meeting, should be reminded that the countryside is not natural, but has been sculpted through the centuries to provide a living for the landowner.

Instead of wheat or barley, some land is now required to provide an amenity, and golf brings pleasure to millions, and money to the local community.

A few rolling undulations covered in grass would seem to be fairly insignificant given the real problems people in Oxfordshire are facing.

Rather that costly legal fees, money could be better spent addressing real issues.

Would not the local people prefer the council to support and promote local initiatives rather than stifle effort over a bit of soil and grass?

COLIN WOODLEY Holland Road Abingdon