IN response to your lead article in the Ledbury Reporter (May 13), we are immensely angered that the annual town party has had to be cancelled this year.

The Ledbury Reporter's article on last year's town party said the police found spilt beer to be the biggest alcohol related issue (perhaps we ought to ban ice-cream also on that basis).

The town party is one of only a few occasions in the town's calendar when townsfolk come together as a community. It is always a fun, good-natured event and really does demonstrate the community atmosphere the town has. Indeed, many towns would be envious of the community spirit that exists in Ledbury.

We would argue that in bringing the community together in this way, it actually acts to reduce anti-social behaviour by instilling a sense of community pride and spirit.

It is often said that a lack of community spirit is part of the cause of anti-social behaviour. Consequently, no party means lesser community spirit and the potential for increased anti-social behaviour - the complete opposite of what the police are trying to achieve.

When it comes to anti-social behaviour in our town it must be remembered that we suffer far less than most other towns and cities in the UK - perhaps due to what community spirit we do have.

Why are the police taking such an antiquated, killjoy approach to the town party? It is something that is of real benefit to the people and local economy of Ledbury. We are sure that many in the community will be saddened by its cancellation this year. We sincerely hope the police will reconsider their stance next year.

Mr & Mrs E Hogan, Browning Road, Ledbury.