INVESTIGATION is pending as to the preservation and reinstatement of the attractive and distinguishing Gothic-style chimney stacks of Gothic House, St James' Street, Accrington (LET, May 16).

As with any building of whatever period, the chimney is an important and prominent architectural feature, an asset to its character, and should be retained as such, along with the windows and doors.

If in doubt, consult other authentic originals as many are ruined by the attempts of amateurs to improve them.

J A MARSDEN, Scarborough Road, Blackburn.

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