I AM more than sorry to learn of the possible closure of the New Mill library.
But, in view of the comments from Tory councillors, I would like to set the record straight.
Those with a long memory will recall that 11 years ago the library was under threat of closure.
I was serving as a Labour councillor for Holme Valley South and, with the late Clr Annie Smith, put forward the suggestion that the library be relocated to its present premises, above New Mill Co-op.
This was resisted by the local Tory councillors, who attended a public meeting in the then library – an appalling, decrepit, pre-fabricated building.
I am very pleased that they now recognise the great resource which the New Mill library has proved to be in its present location.
However, Councillor Firth, quoted in the media, says that he will do everything he possibly can to keep the New Mill library open.
I welcome this and it occurs to me that he has the opportunity to do just that. He and the other Conservative councillors for our area have a budget from the Area Committee to spend locally.
They have it in their hands to use this money to save our library and keep the heart of New Mill intact.
RITA BRIGGS
Holmfirth
BBC not in real world
I COULD not agree more with your correspondent Mr Corcoran’s letter (March 16).
Its about time the BBC lived in the real world. Most of the programmes are re-hashed or cater for soap or film watchers.
I have been receiving constant intimidating letters from them to renew a TV licence for a property I vacated even though I have renewed my licence at the property I have moved to and phoned them to explain.
The same applies to the utility companies and council tax. They expect more money off people every year while people have less and less to live on.
The council taxpayers’ interests could be more protected if there was not so many hare-brained projects like St George’s Square or closing the Tourist Information Centre.
ANTHONY SMITH
Springwood
Just doing their duty
AS an ex-solider who defended this country I feel the treatment of our soldiers in Luton – whose welcome home parade was disrupted by a handful calling them murderers, child killers and butchers – was unacceptable.
It was the Government who sent these soldiers to fight opponents who use children and women as shields.
So, it was the Government’s duty to protect them from abuse at home as they are not allowed to protect themselves here.
Having practical war experience, I can see the great difficulties of our troops to stay alive while fighting according to rule books.
Opponents who don’t care for any rules and, when an unavoidable incident occurs, it is blown to enormous proportions.
Soldiers don’t make decisions, they only do their duty, having members of all communities in their ranks.
What a contrast to terrorists who are treated with kid gloves and the public purse is wide open for their expense and even compensation.
TONY SOSNA
Huddersfield
Songs of praise
I ATTENDED the wonderful Songs of Praise in Huddersfield Town Hall in aid of St John’s Church in Birkby for their building funds.
I was struck by the enthusiasm of all the choirs and audience, led by the dynamic Simon Lindley.
On opening the Examiner this morning, I wish to applaud the photographer present who took a magnificent shot of the town hall organ in all its glory.
My thanks go to all who gave their time and energy to provide an afternoon for all denominations. We are so lucky to have such a beautiful town hall for all to appreciate.
JOAN M ANDREWS
Fartown
Comic Relief cash
OH, what a sight it has to be said, the Co-op staff all dressed for bed, it was all for fun and for good causes, for those who are needy with so few resources.
It makes me proud to be British and see people so ready to help people in need. A fun day was had, we made 200 quid, so thanks to everyone for all you did. It lifts the spirit to be able to give, to make a difference to the way others live.
ANNE BROWNE
New Mill Co-op
A final farewell
THIS will be my last letter concerning concerts of Holmfirth Choral Society and I take this opportunity of thanking the Examiner for the publicity you have given us over many years.
My final concert is on March 28 at Holmfirth Civic Hall at 7.15pm. The choir will sing Haydn’s “Creation”, one of my top favourites and, as we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of Haydn’s death, this is another good reason for singing it.
It will be the first visit to Holmfirth for the soprano, Heather Seekins, plus tenor Simon Crosby Buttle and John Ramsden. The accompanist will be Valley Sinfonia leader Mary Rafferty.
Tickets cost £8 from Pat Steventon on 01484 687643.
KEN
Linthwaite
Thank you
TO the Doctors and all the staff on ward 20A.
Thank you all for your prompt, professional and friendly attention.
CHRIS LEDWIDGE
Mirfield
State of station
HOW much longer are passengers expected to struggle up and down steep stairs to access platforms at Huddersfield railway station?
Why can we not have escalators or a lift installed?
I appreciate that staff will assist by taking people to cross the tracks, however, not much fun when it is pouring with rain.
Huddersfield is a busy station and better facilities are surely justified.
Finally, why isn’t the Union Flag flying from the flagpole?
Come on Network Rail, let’s have some action.
S CRUICKSHANK
Brighouse
What’s in a name?
MR M FLETCHER’S letter of March 14 dwelling on only one insulting name for the English is missing the point entirely that I was making in my letter of February 13.
We English are bombarded with insults and negative identity from all quarters and sources.
Origins of Sassenach are irrelevant. It is the usage of the word that matters.
Within my earshot over the years it has usually been preceded or followed by a swear word.
Jocular it is not. It is one of the few Gaelic words most Scots know – why use it at all.
We can easily replace it with the derogatory term “white settlers” used to donate English people living in Scotland.
I have great respect for the majority of Scots and I have never met a Scot who took umbrage at being referred to as a Scot, short for Scottish.
The point I was originally making is that others who have their nationality shortened to the first four letters cry racist without being insulted by a derogatory other word.
Racist is the most exploited word in the English language.
LEN SANDFORD
Lepton
Beware of charges
A FEW days ago I had reason to believe my smoke alarm needed a new battery. I had misplaced the number of the fire service who had fitted the alarm so rang Age Concern thinking they could give me the number.
The man who answered the phone said they had a “handy man” who would fit a new battery.
He came, however when he looked at the alarm he said it didn’t need a new battery, as it was only a loose wire.
Then came the shock, I had to pay £15 for the call out. No-one had told me a thing about paying for a call out.
Later, Age Concern contacted me and apologised for not telling me of the call out fee so would I just pay £5. I said I wasn’t going to pay.
I am 84 and just wanted to warn others to be sure you ask if there is any call out charge.
PENSIONER
Paddock
Square debacle
I AGREE entirely with Andrew Scott Crines (Friday, March 13), regarding the debacle of St George’s Square.
Councillors who voted in favour of the scheme should hang their heads in shame. They have wasted our money and deprived businesses of their trade for something the public did not want.
Thanks must go however to whoever is responsible for the marvellous display of flowers on several of the roads leading into Huddersfield.
If it is the council’s doing, at least they have got something right.
CAROLE SENIOR
Skelmanthorpe
Keep town tidy
I WANTED to bring to your attention to litter these is on the streets of Huddersfield.
Surely the council should be willing and responsible to clear this unsightly mess up? I have reported a lot of litter along Queens Mill Road and King’s Mill Lane.
It is an absolute disgrace, the amount of litter in the woods and on grass verges etc.
I reported this to the council over four times.Why has nothing been done? The council seem more interested in wanting my details.
This problem should be dealt with to keep our country clean and tidy.
CONCERNED CITIZEN
Dalton
