I FIND myself in the same position as poor Mrs Matthews (News Shopper, September 26) regarding her fall over an uneven pavement and her treatment by Bexley Council.

I, too, received a statement from Zurich Insurance saying the pavement had been inspected only weeks prior to my fall.

Where I tripped there was a large area which was so bad I wonder whether the inspection was thorough enough.

I tripped over a pavement in Churchfield Road, Welling, and was seen by two doctors.

The surgery staff telephoned Bexley Council because I was in such a bad state bruised face, hip, hands and an injured shoulder.

I also sent photos to Bexley Council to no avail and, like Mrs Matthews, received the same kind of letter from Zurich.

One letter claimed I had turned down an offer of a joint inspection, but at the time I was in no fit state to go anywhere. I assume the inspection would have proved the defect straight away. Zurich suggested

I should seek legal aid but after four letters from Zurich I could not go through the hassle.

I consider I have had a rough deal from Bexley Council. I wish Mrs Matthews well. I know how she feels.

Mrs R.V. MULVANEY

Faraday Road

Welling.

October 5, 2001 16:41