• WE do not pay to swim in the sea or walk on the beach – why should we pay to swim in Hampstead Heath bathing ponds? (Heath managers: You will have to splash out to swim in ponds, January 14).

Perhaps if charges have to be applied why not make “the ponds” a members’ club and charge a small annual fee issued with a rubber wristband.

This, for a few weeks a year when it is mainly used, would suit everybody and be good for the regular swimmers who keep these ponds open.

MAUREEN SMITH,
NW5