DURING the gun control debate following the Dunblane atrocity, the Lancashire Evening Telegraph took a moral stand generally supporting the handgun ban and deploring the violence and "gun culture" that pervades society.

Although in my "Local Gun Collector" letters to your postbag I tried to point out that legal and responsible handgun ownership and "gun culture" were totally unconnected, it was obvious that your newspaper held a different point of view.

However, after taking such a moral stand, I was disappointed to see the television preview of "Thief Takers" (LET, December 11). The photograph and content of the preview promoted both "gun culture" and violence as entertainment, and I can see no good reason for you to promote this programme in contravention of previously stated principles.

As a recent Bristol University study has found a direct link between violence on television and violence in society, I would be grateful if you would explain to why you chose to enthusiastically preview this particular programme? I also feel it unfair that while licensed and responsible shooters can no longer legally possess or shoot handguns or self-loading carbines, actors can apparently prepare for their parts by target shooting.

Target shooting with these types of firearms is illegal in this country and it will be interesting to know how their target shooting was arranged.

O.K., I admit that after losing most of my handgun collection (and being unlikely to receive compensation this side of the millennium), I may be slightly over-sensitive, or even biased, but I shall be interested to receive your answers.

M E WALSH, Thornhill Avenue, Rishton.

FOOTNOTE: We previewed a very popular TV programme which details the activities of a fictional police squad armed to the teeth to combat similarly armed villains. Perhaps with the new gun controls there will be less call for such squads. Let us hope so - Editor.

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