Regarding the many letters about 4x4s and the opinions of some people, including Councillor Taylor and the ban-it brigade, what is the matter with them?

As a driver of one of these "devil vehicles", on a few occasions I have been in the unfortunate position of being verbally abused for it.

I find it difficult to respect the people themselves when they are happy to intimidate others about their opinion, right or wrong.

I find the comments of Mrs E Young (Letters, March 10) particularly objectionable.

She is very opinionated as to who drives "devil cars" and the fashion in which they do so.

I do not lack consideration for other road users and I do give way to other drivers and, I might add, pedestrians.

Nor do I bully my way through traffic lanes.

If she had any knowledge of driving a 4x4, she would know they are difficult to manoeuvre quickly, unlike saloons which frequently cut me up.

I would also point out my 4x4, fits very nicely into a parking bay, whether on the street or in the tight spaces in car parks.

Its length is no greater than my previous car's and it doesn't stick out in the road any further than any other reasonably-sized car.

When I park, I pull my wing mirrors in to ensure I don't damage anything or anyone and I am well aware 4x4s are higher than other cars and for some people, especially children, they could be hazardous so, you see, I am considerate.

The reason I drive a 4x4 is I have difficulty getting in and out of saloon cars due to a medical condition.

My 4x4 makes me independent and mobile. Without it, I would be dependent on others and have to suffer the difficulty and indignity of being hauled in and out of a saloon.

It isn't my favourite car. I would give a lot to be able to drive any of my previous cars rather than the 4x4 but needs must.

Lastly, to those who believe all 4x4s are gas guzzlers, my previous car had a two-litre engine and its fuel consumption was higher than my present vehicle.

My 4x4 also has to have the same emission testing as any other car, so what is the problem?

When 4x4s fail to meet required standards, they are off the road until put right, just like any other car, and rest assured that with the new DVLA tax/MoT/insurance system, very few will get away with not meeting those standards.

-Name and address supplied