Following my enjoyable run in the annual Rivington Pike Race on Easter Saturday, an event involving hundreds of, mainly local, runners and watched by several hundred spectators, I am appalled to hear that this may be the last year of this traditional event.

The organisers for 2008's race are faced with a £1,000 police bill for closing the small stretch of Lever Park Avenue to allow the race to take place and this is placing the future of the race in jeopardy.

I cannot believe that this cost is justifiable for such a small stretch of road, for such a short space of time, once a year, for such a worthwhile event.

This was especially brought home to me the following day, Easter Sunday, when my family visited a restaurant in Bradshawgate in the town centre, at around 7.30pm to celebrate my daughter's birthday and we saw many police officers, vans and security personnel in the area to prevent unruly behavior.

This massive operation to prevent disorder is to be seen every weekend of the year and on other special occasions as well and must be costing the local council tax payers thousands of pounds.

I don't want to spoil anyone's fun but I can't help thinking priorities are wrong somewhere.

Mrs Janet Rashleigh, Horwich RMI Harriers, Cheviot Close, Horwich