IT was interesting to read that the UK popsters, Take That, are continuing as a three piece without Robbie Williams and Jason Orange with their aptly named new album, III (Echo, Dec 2).

Some folks say that Gary Barlow is one of the finest song writers of all time, and while I might disagree, the band still produces hits and has a huge fan base so I accept that credit must be given to this pop band that has notched up 27 hit singles in the the UK alone.

I have seen the effect that Take That has on some people.

I'll never forget the time I called into Hogans in Darlington for a pint after a visit to see relatives in Manchester, where I observed several people of all different ages smooching as the DJ played A Million Love Songs.

With being quite startled at the delight that I was witnessing, I refrained from joining them and later popped down to Frankies bar where the sounds of the indie pop band, James, greeted me. I smiled, ordered a beer and thought about the insanity that Take That have had on the public.

Deep down, I much prefer the hypnotic sounds of ska and the funky Madchester era beats, but each to their own. Credit when credit is due. The United Kingdom has always produced the best music, maaan.

I am a great believer in the power of song and I often cannot control myself when I hear an old Bad Manners tune. I often invite those who are with me to join me in the frenzied joy of dance.

Christopher Wardell, Darlington