CROWN STREET: IT'S not that often that I applaud Darlington Borough Council, but I must shout out three cheers for the redevelopment allowed to be carried out in Crown Street in the town centre.

Once, Crown Street was deserted with only a library to boast. Now, the street is revamped with two bars and a new shopping complex.

The William Stead and 10 Crown Street are two new bars, offering fantastic food and drink at very reasonable prices. These two bars have brought along with them a lot of custom to the lower parts of the town centre, and it is great to have a beer in both of these venues without having to put up with the hustle and bustle of the pubs in Skinnergate on a weekend.

The regeneration of Darlington town centre could prove to be fruitful, and if new bars like 10 Crown Street continue to get the go-ahead to open up for business, then myself and the other drink and food enthusiasts of Darlington will be happy people.- Christopher Wardell, Darlington.

MAINTAIN TRADITION

I AM writing on behalf of the members of the Darlington and South Durham branch of the Co-operative Party. We have decided that we are against the idea of a directly-elected mayor for Darlington.

We believe that Darlington should not abandon a tradition envied by many less fortunate towns.

Currently, the honour of mayor is offered here in turn to the next councillor by seniority of service. Party affiliation is disregarded.

Democracy is served because anyone who becomes mayor will have been elected several times, either as a Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat or Independent councillor.

Under the present system there is a difference between the political leader of the council and the separate non-political activity of the annual mayor, whose presence is welcomed by countless organisations in the town. A great deal of money is also raised for charity.

Communities throughout the country differ and we do not criticise the Government for raising the issue of directly-elected mayors.

But Darlington is a special place. We are proud of our traditions. Let us keep one that has served us well. - E Hart, vice-chairman, Darlington and South Durham Branch, Co-operative Party.