IN replying to Coun J Hirst (Letters, September 15), recent popularity polls have shown that support for the monarchy has been on the decline for some time.

The tragic death of Princess Diana and the reports of her shameful treatment at their hands has inflicted irreparable damage on their position.

The few pieces of royal wreckage still afloat were sunk by Earl Spencer when he delivered his "straight from the heart" speech.

Hastily-scripted walkabouts, complete with royal handshakes, may have pacified a few of the faithful, but I believe more people will have thought the whole charade was distasteful.

No disrespect to Coun Hirst, but the thought of some king stopping Adolf Hitler does seem a little comical.

Many tried, but paid with their lives.

Tony Blair may be attempting to reform the monarchy, but no amount of tinkering or patching will do.

Give the people the right to vote. Let's have a referendum.

A PEARSON (MR) Park Lee Road, Blackburn.

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