HOW dare Irene Thornley (Letters, March 20) say that Councillor Dave Smith has "rose-tinted glasses?"

I and other residents in the area have contacted Coun Smith on quite a few occasions to help sort our queries -- including fly-tipping and vandalism. On every occasion, he has helped our community.

If Mrs Thornley wishes to express negatives about Darwen, then that is her problem. How on earth does she expect to attract business and investment into our town if only the negatives are expressed?

I am glad that Coun Smith has a least pointed out the many good things on offer in our town -- instead of listening to those who do nothing but moan about Darwen.

P ESTON (Mr), Springfield Street, Darwen.