With regard to the letter from Pauline Stilges in last week s letters page, can I begin by saying that your headline Fairtrade Flop does nothing to impress me or probably your readers also. It has become increasingly apparent over the past few months that

With regard to the letter from Pauline Stilges in last week's letters page, can I begin by saying that your headline Fairtrade Flop does nothing to impress me or probably your readers also. It has become increasingly apparent over the past few months that you are going through a dumbing down process at the moment. Why could this be? Are you worried by the other local paper that does the rounds on a Sunday? Do not lower yourself to that level, you were a genuine quality newspaper not so long ago. Just make sure that your paper gets around to everyone and forget the sensationalist style which other papers feel they need to have to attract readers.

On the subject of Fairtrade, I am delighted to say to all your readers that Letchworth Garden City is embarking on the process of acquiring Fairtrade status. You will see numerous events and publicity over the next few months and I urge everyone in Letchworth Garden City to get involved. As an example, I hope that Pauline Stilges will be one of the first to offer her assistance. Please contact either myself, Lorna Kercher at North Herts District Council or Maria Leone, the LGC town centre manager.

SIMON BLOXHAM, Eastern Way, Letchworth GC, lgcfairtrade@safetysystems.co.uk

EDITOR'S COMMENT: The letter was simply the genuine view of a reader who has an interest in Fairtrade and wanted it promoted in Letchworth GC. To respond by describing The Comet in such a spiteful tone is not helpful. We will of course be here to give coverage to your 'numerous events and publicity' as we try to do, space permitting, to every group in