ALL too often so-called 'consultation' exercises turn out to be anything but, with the issues already cut and dried and authorities merely going through the public motions. Protesters find that their objections fall upon deaf ears; their reasons belittled and their sheer weight of numbers ignored.

So, step forward Bradford Council and, on this occasion, take a well-earned bow. New pool safety rules had been brought in which prevented many families from swimming together, but after objections - particularly by parents in the Ilkley area - the policy has been changed.

We have no argument with the authorities for trying to make swimming pools safer places; one swimming fatality is one too many. However, part of the new rules insisted that all children under the age of four had to have one-to-one supervision. This meant that one parent could not take two youngsters to the baths.

The Gazette reported the outrage felt by parents such as Martin and Maria Elgood, for whom - with youngsters aged five, three and one - it meant family swims were effectively banned. Other parents also protested and the Gazette's letters column featured the views of others.

Now we report on Page One this week that Bradford Council has listened to these protests and has changed the policy. The former strict rule is now a simple recommendation.

This is eminently sensible. Parents are advised by the council that in its opinion one-to-one supervision is best. But parents like the Elgoods, who feel that it is perfectly reasonable for one parent to look after two children, will still be able to go swimming. As another protester, Robert Morse, who officially complained to Bradford Council, maintains, the emphasis should be on parental responsibility, and that is what the amended policy achieves.

The original regulations were in line with recommendations from the Institute of Sport and Recreation Management, and to compensate for the change in rules, the council has put additional lifeguards on duty at peak times.

A very sensible compromise, out of which the protesters can feel their efforts were well worthwhile and the council can take credit for listening and acting on them.