BLACKPOOL -- that favourite holiday haunt of Leythers throughout the century -- is a sad, outdated seaside resort.

Who says so, apart from me? Leisure Parks, who are planning a Las Vegas style makeover for the Golden Mile, that's who.

There's no doubt that the town does need dragging into the 21st century to draw back the waning crowds, but I'm sure it can do it without becoming a gambling mecca.

All the little souvenir businesses and guest house landladies must be shaking in their shoes at the thought of being ousted by the massive multi-million pound extravaganza.

I'm sorry, but looking at a model of the scheme on the TV it looks horrendous.

Personally, I hated the bright lights and razzmatazz of Las Vegas.

Though the hotels are magnificent to stay in with the best and biggest breakfasts I've ever seen, the whole place is totally false and soundless -- and I was glad to get out after three days.

I wouldn't like Blackpool to lose its heritage, but then I suppose, like in Vegas, the hotels could have themed frontages -- and the resort could keep its character in that way.

However, no matter what is done to improve holiday business Leisure Parks won't be able to make the sun shine.

The first action that should be taken to draw back the holidaying crowds is to clean up the disgusting beach and rid the sea of the stinking brown sewage.

That is enough to put anyone off.

At least the public is being consulted on the plan before it goes ahead -- which it no doubt will.

And if it does I for one will still be staying away!