CITIZEN readers may be interested to hear of two stories I have come across while talking to friends. Both are true.

The first concerns a young couple, born and brought up in Lancaster, together for 10 years and wanting to set up home close to their families.

They want to rent a council house so that they have their own place. They have more points than they need on the council system and both are in work - but after a year of waiting, they are still unable to obtain a house from the council on the estate where they live.

Whenever they ask about the availability of houses, they're told that the homeless take priority and that they'll just have to wait. The only problem is, they're never told how long.

The second story is about someone who bought one of the new houses on the old Moor Hospital site just as the foundations were being laid and watched as it took shape. Then, just before it was finished, he sold it at and made a very comfortable profit thank you very much.

Apparently he's just one of many 'astute' business people like this who often buy a house or houses to sell on at a profit six months down the line.

Good luck to all you youngsters who are looking to set up a home locally and start a family of your own - you are going to need it.

Sean Kelly, Lancaster.