I WAS disgusted and shocked by the visit of Sheikh Abu Hamza to Blackburn (LET, March 12).

With all the tension of the Iraq situation, this is the last thing the people of this area want to see or hear.

This has to be the biggest mistake my Muslim friends have made, for it has undermined all the hard work that has gone on to create harmony among all races after the riots we had.

There is no doubt in my mind this fiasco has to be the best recruiting poster for the British National Party.

I would think those responsible to think and think hard about inviting these radical people in the future. I only hope we can defuse the situation in the months ahead.

F J NEWSOME, Burnley Road, Padiham.