THE ELECTORATE holding various opinions on a plethora of subjects seems to me the whole essence of democracy.

However, having written to a couple of MPs on a local issue I have doubts about their thoughts.

While one of the replies was at the least understanding and refreshingly frank, the other was downright blunt and rude.

I have been concerned over the direction our historical town -- now a city -- is heading, through the planners and developers being given seemingly 'carte blanche' to do as they please. Indeed, after our lovely Gothic style town hall was cruelly demolished, nothing is safe.

Yes, the spire was lost in a fire, but so was part of St Paul's Cathedral in London, York Minster and Windsor Castle -- all painstakingly rebuilt. Meanwhile our local heritage is being savaged.

For one MP to glibly state he was 'disappointed to read my unpleasant letter' beggars belief. While I don't mind anyone having conflicting views to mine, I am trying to prevent another disaster within our newly crowned city, because it's too late after the horse has bolted. Sadly, it appears it already has.

Now, free speech -- the main essential of democracy -- is in danger of being eroded.

No wonder apathy reigns.

Name and address supplied.