SIR — If you walk by the River Itchen, you cannot fail to have noticed the wonderful bumper crop of nettles.

I have just enjoyed a delicious bowl of nettle soup. It is very easy to make.

First don a pair of rubber gloves and pick the top half of young nettles with about six or so leaves and fill a small plastic carrier bag, then wash them in cold water.

Saute a large onion with a crushed clove of garlic in a large saucepan. Then add the nettles plus about two pints of water and a large potato, a stock cube and seasoning. I usually add about a quarter teaspoon of mixed spice.

Then simmer gently for 20 minutes or so. Whisk it all to a smooth texture and enjoy!

I think there are enough nettles to feed the entire population of Winchester.

Perhaps some enterprising young person could set up a nettle soup factory!

Ann Gildersleve.

Cripstead Lane, St Cross.