The Argus ropes into its "sad band of no hopers" those who opposed a directly-elected mayor (Voice Of The Argus, June 15).

But those voters were in a clear majority, as they were in other cities across the country. They evidently had democratic "hopes" which were met through democratic means.

Meanwhile, in its City of Culture coverage, The Argus has unwisely re-opened the feud between Burchill and Fanshawe. I sense an infatuation between them.

Perhaps Julie should spend her "anti-culture" money instead on a wedding ring for Simon, for they surely deserve each other. Until then, would you mind leaving them alone?

-Richard Witts, richardwitts@richardwitts.fsnet.co.uk