PERHAPS I could use your letters page to suggest the following to the local tourism barons.

As a way of saying a big thank you to all local residents for their massive subsidies to the illuminations, Winter Gardens etc., not to mention the day-to-day problems and cost of living in a popular tourist resort, I would propose the following:

The first Monday after the illuminations switch off should be deemed a local holiday. This would enable the major attractions to throw their doors open for free to all local residents. The local council already run a discount scheme for locals for which they are to be commended but they too could join in the free day.

Further than this, all those breweries and pubs etc that do very nicely for free out of the illuminations and on the back of the Pleasure Beach and Leisure Parcs attractions, could contribute towards a local residents fund, to be used in a fitting way, as deemed by a residents' panel. Ideas for this expenditure could be, local disabled children, schools etc.

Personally, I believe that such a gesture is long overdue in our town and I am certain that such a scheme will be looked upon favourably. Let's all work together and make Monday, November 5 the first such successful day of many.

John Finlay, Faringdon Avenue, Blackpool.