DURING a recent visit to The Journal web site, I read with interest the story of Dawn Parkinson and her campaign to rid Leigh of its 'sick society'.

First, I would like to commend her for her stand and hope that others with similar concerns will support her efforts by becoming involved.

I was born in Westleigh and I lived there until emigrating to the US. I have returned many times during the past 35 years but, unfortunately, only to see the deterioration of a town that once stood proud, where civility and self-respect were the 'norm'.

As a resident of New York City, I have also seen a 'sick society' get better, but is starts with leadership and involvement. Under our present mayor, Rudy Guiliani, formerly a federal prosecutor, the city has seen a 50% crime reduction, a homeless problem contained, a porn industry closed down, and generally a safer and cleaner place for us all.

His tough, no-nonsense approach is simple. He refers to is as 'the broken window syndrome'. When you see a broken window you replace the glass immediately. If you do not, then soon after you will find another and before long a once decent neighbourhood is turned in to a ghetto.

With the right leadership and solid support among the citizens of Leigh, there is no doubt that it too can rid itself of its 'sick society'. Good luck.

THOMAS MULLARKEY

Ex-patriot, New York

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.