Respond to this genuine worry

And this year threatens to be just as bad, with reports already reaching us of off road riders ruining a playground in Parson Cross. What is even worse, they get to the area by riding through local residents' gardens.

Parents, it must be said, are ignoring their responsibilities here. For a lot of the riders are youngsters, many not even old enough to legally ride a bike on the road, and their mums and dads ought to play their part in making sure they are not turning people's enjoyment into a nightmare.

The authorities are alert to this problem. But their response is inadequate and we appeal to them to respond with renewed vigour to what is a genuine concern on the part of residents.

Get behind this sensible trend

SHEFFIELD'S environmentally friendly bags for charity scheme is launching a new range. And we hope that this is as successful as its predecessors.

The Charibag project has so far raised more than 14,000 for its chosen causes, the Sheffield Children's Hospital Charity and schools involved in the School Fund scheme.

The Star is keen to see an end to plastic carrier bags which are handed out too readily by some supermarkets, adding to the mountain of waste engulfing our communities. Charibags are just the thing, offering a reusable bag with a kind hearted message included.

We appeal to readers to get behind this very useful and very sensible trend.

A truffle pleasing

THIS summer's torrential rains and floods may have been bad news for the nation's farmers but there's one crop that actually loves a good downpour. And gourmet fans of rare foods are getting very excited at the prospect of a bumper truffle group as the subterranean fungus loves a good soaking. Somehow, though, we can't see truffles taking the place of spuds down at the local chippie!