THE election of BNP candidates at the recent local elections is chilling.

My wife and I spent two fantastic years as a doctor and a teacher in Burnley. The hospitality and friendliness that we experienced from everyone was astounding.

We emigrated to New Zealand in 1993, not to get away from England, but just for the adventure. However, I am so glad we stayed and are bringing up our three children over here.

New Zealand is not a utopian vision of racial harmony. We have just reached a population of four million and there are immigration problems that need to be addressed honestly. However, the racist policies of the far right get short shrift from the vast majority of people.

We're guessing that the election of BNP candidates will only serve to increase the fear and loathing in East Lancashire. Hatred and intolerance will not result in better lives for anyone. We wish you all good luck and feel that you will need it.

ADRIAN AND LIZ HUMM, Dargaville Medical Centre, Darvaville, New Zealand.