THE entry of Altrincham into the 'High Street' competition, and its present leading position, does not say much for the rest of the competitors.

Councillor Anstee, rather than tripping off to 'Jollys' in China, might try spending half an hour walking round Altrincham.

He would find around 20 empty shops on Railway Street, and empty premises on George Street, one of which was refurbished a few years ago.

We have pound shops, charity shops, 'Art with a Heart', and a large empty premises next to Rackhams.

Rackhams itself has lost about half of its original area:is this what one would expect of a typical 'high street'?

Anstee,'Altrincham Forward' and Altrincham Chamber of Commerce need to get up and do something positive:putting down cobblestones will not turn the clock back to the golden era of 120 years ago.

The advent of large supermarkets has killed off the small retailer:winning a competition for 'best high street' is hardly likely to bring them back. If Altrincham gets the £80,000 what will it be spent on - more cobbles, or pay the rent for a couple of shops for a year?

David Olliver (53,Oxford Road WA14 2ED 941-5028)