THERE is a clear difference between racism and patriotism, despite what John Cave (Letters, August 26) might think.

Patriotism is the love of one's country, while racism is the belief that certain races are superior -- and therefore others are inferior.

There is no accepted link, however, between race and country. The most powerful country in the world, America, is made up of people from many different races, as is our own country.

Patriotism does not, however, mean a blind love. Part of loving one's country is working to make it better, whereas a bigoted racist view that some people are inferior because of their race does not help any country.

The BNP represents the worst our country has to offer.

It is only a matter of time before people see through the BNP's propaganda of patriotism and, instead, lend their weight to making our country something to truly be prouder of.

DANIEL RATCLIFFE, Blackburn Anti-Nazi League (address received).