CONGRATULATIONS on your publication of the Cummings and Goings column (LET, May 11) regarding the healthy rivalry between the supporters of Burnley FC and Blackburn Rovers fans.

Thank heavens for Stephen Cummings being allowed to express what so many of us feel.

Such freedom of speech is banned on the Saturday evening Radio Lancashire football phone-in by the totalitarian attitude of the presenter, Gary Hickson.

In recent weeks, Mr Hickson has even shown disdain towards Blackburn Rovers supporters who have rung in to discuss, quite rationally, the demise of their Ewood club.

As soon as any criticism or in-depth analysis on any topic is proffered by the person phoning in, Mr Hickson panics. He so often shows a lack of understanding.

Contributors are insulted by Mr Hickson, cut short and dismissed.

JOHN C TOMLINSON, Windermere Avenue, Burnley.

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