YOUR front page story told of a children's party with barbecue and bouncy castle and the sound of excited childish voices (July 11). What could give more pleasure and satisfaction for the future?

Then it was raided by "a dozen policemen", Orwellian! How many readers have reported genuine crime and had to wait hours, or days, even, for an offhand crime number and that's the end of it?

I've lived in the south of France. Barbecues, swimming pools and the sound of children enjoying themselves gladden the night into early morning. There, it's looked on as a blessing.

Mick Snowden,

Manor Farm,

Amotherby, Malton.

Updated: 09:40 Thursday, July 14, 2005