HAVING read your January 4 edition, I feel that I must take issue with Citizen Smith. I usually find his column to be both entertaining and informative. However in the above edition his criticism of the tourism department was, I thought uncalled for and misdirected. If he cares to check his records again, I think that he will find that the comparison of tourist figures for Lancaster, York and Chester, emanated from "North West Tourism", not the Lancaster tourism department. Was he I wonder, on the wrong side of the looking glass as he compiled his column?

Having said that, what is wrong with aspiring to a higher level in any endeavour?

I for me am becoming fed up with all the negative comments in the local press, usually, I must stress, in the pages of your competitor's publications. Negative criticism is the easiest way to fill column space and about as inspiring and cheering as the beat of a funeral drum. It is time for a more upbeat tempo, we have a great deal to be proud of in our district and should be striving for more, via both public and private enterprise. The local press should be in the forefront and try to present a more positive image instead of all the doom and gloom. However, even I must make one exception, I am as one with the good "Citizen" in his comments regarding the Millennium Bridge. The once fine vista of the castle, Priory Church and St Georges Quay, from the Skerton side of the river, has been ruined by this unnecessary and intrusive "V" sign structure.

T Johnston

Halton Road

Lancaster