SIR – Re: a letter from Richard Lewis – it can only be assumed it was meant to be an April Fool joke!

The gentleman in question states that the introduction of multiple occupancy (HMO) in private rented sector, reduces house prices by up to 30 per cent.

Mr Lewis, take your head out of the sand and take a walk anywhere in St John’s.

The houses in multiple occupation (HMO) are blatantly obvious, you cannot miss them.

They are the ones that have already been reduced to 30 or more per cent in value.

I wonder where you live?

Not in St John’s, I am sure, or perhaps you are one of the many absentee landlords protecting your assets!

MRS S A LAYTON

Worcester