SIR – Three recent features in the T&A epitomise why the nay-sayers and Bradford-knockers thrive in abundance.

Firstly, the feature on those interviewed in an area directly affected by the proposed boundary changes were unanimous in their desire to identify with Halifax rather than Bradford, and who could blame them?

But it’s worrying, given that a few decades ago Halifax’s central attractions were regarded by most as decidedly limited, apart from their Piece Hall Yard, and this has recently declined.

Then we heard about the Leeds man who has recently moved to Bradford to find that his car insurance premium is now measured in thousands rather than hundreds. Of course, those that do pay car insurance have been aware for years that we are being badly let down by the efforts to get to grips with this problem.

Lastly, we hear about young poppy sellers needing protection on the streets.

This trio of negative stories added to the league tables of shame we always seem to top, and the seemingly never-ending shootings that the police quaintly describe as ‘targeted’, conjure up a city that has only past glories to commend it.

E Atkins, Norman Avenue, Eccleshill