READERS will probably have learned of Red Rose 999's decision to axe one of its most popular presenters after 10 years' service.

I, along with many others, feel that this is just the latest attempt by the station management to re-aim Red Rose 999 at a much younger audience and also have a watered-down version of Rock FM.

The station may argue that it is becoming more focused on the local community by increasing local news and sport, and by doing 'What's Ons.' But how many people know that this 'increased' local-ness is being forced on them by their watchdog, the Radio Authority, and they should have been doing it anyway?

It appears that the station is shedding its strong local personalities and is moving ever more quickly to a diet of recent hits and mindless prattle aimed at a much younger audience.

In short, they are attempting to narrow listener choice within Lancashire.

I would ask people who agree with me to write to the station's managing director and to the Radio Authority.

Let's hope that when the station management are made aware of the feelings of their listeners, they will take heed and will begin to cater once again for their needs.

CHRISTOPHER HORNBY, Westgate Farm, Guide Road, Hesketh Bank, Preston.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.