SOMEONE has just sent me pictures of Darlington's "new" High Row and other areas. First of all, why was a new High Row needed?

Was it voted for by the people of Darlington? If not, has anyone been asked for their views on how High Row looks now? Who paid for it?

I was born and raised in Darlington and, frankly, I think all the character of the town has been taken away.

People were attracted to the town for its homeliness and quaintness. That has been ruined.

The idea of water running down the steps is ludicrous. As much as it rains in Darlington, you'll get the water for free on the steps.

I cannot for the life of me see what has been gained by changing the overall look.

And those poles in Blackwellgate are stupid. Can't you just hear the "out of towners"

saying: "Let's go to Darlington to have our pulse lit up."

Whoever had these stupid ideas needs to be fired before they think up something else that costs money that they won't be paying.

Barbara Jean Lowton, Stockton, California,