REGARDING the reader who wrote of "the Dead Duck", as a staunch theatre supporter I entirely agree with his observation about a viable business and comments about a bottomless pit.

It may interest him, and others, to know that many hundreds of theatre supporters are not asking for money to sustain the Swan.

We are appealing to be allowed to sustain the theatre on a significantly reduced budget.

Where will all the youth groups go if the Swan is closed? Onto the streets and into the bars?

Given the opportunity, this precious theatre, built by members of the community for members of the community, could serve the people for whom it was intended.

BRITT ASHMORE, Worcester.