I DESPAIR at Colin S Jeffrey pouring abuse on what he calls “a fuss”. Can he and his fellow detractors really not see how much public goodwill and spirit the diamond jubilee has raised?

The Press was packed with news and views of people enjoying the parties and the celebrations. Radio and TV coverage was immense, reflecting the interest.

Almost all interviewees remarked on how hard-working the Queen has been through her lifetime and yet Mr Jeffrey says it is “not a job”. Maybe a monarchy is not an ideal form of democracy, but I am widely travelled and have not found many people who do not envy the British system, for all its faults. Personally, I am not a sports lover and I find the Olympics an irksome bore, but I give way graciously to the many people wishing to see them and I do not call for them to be banished. I even welcome the goodwill (and hopefully the wealth) the Olympics will bring, just like the Royals brought last week. True democracy bows to the people and republicans should remember this, as they are far outnumbered.

Bob Redwood, Main Street, Askham Bryan, York.