Father Christmas is supposed to be based on Saint Nicholas. Saint Nicholas was a man and that's how we visualise Santa Claus.

We are now seeing him in different guises. One that has shocked me shows him as a dwarf! Go to Woolworth's and look at its posters.

It is a matter of regret that as the years roll by, one by one the things we hold dear and love drop by the wayside. There is no longer constancy or security.

I hope humanity one day will cease the futile and often reckless "search for happiness". We should discard materialism.

We have taken a wrong turning. Look around you and what do you see? Rude, self-opinionated people; over-indulgence; lack of consideration for others; swearing and shouting for no reason; parents lacking control of badly behaved children.

Think before you act or speak. May peace and joy be yours for yuletide.

Make good resolutions for the New Year and we may have a country fine to live in for all.

-Philip Bond, Clarendon Road, Brighton