I FIND CT Riley's idea for the Laurel Building at Bishop Auckland interesting (HAS, Nov 3). If the building were converted into what is effectively a "folk museum" not only would it help to preserve aspects of our local culture which are being threatened by not being passed on, but by introducing people to their local history and traditions they can feel more connected to their area and thus their community.

This would be beneficial given the way that so many of today's young people feel so disconnected from their communities and society. It would make it easier for them to relate to their own national culture.

Equally, by providing people with examples of local people past and present who obtained fame and respect through hard work, or by making positive contributions to the region or country, it will provide far better role models than the often vacuous, talentless, self-centred people we are expected to look up to.

HE Smith, Spennymoor, Co Durham.