SO because only 24% of ticket sales went to people living in the town council's area the management committee has recommended that the £5,000 grant to Malvern Theatres could be cut (Malvern Gazette, October 13).

Perhaps this idea of achieving a necessary percentage of usage for grants and services could be extended. For example, if no more than 24% of the town's population use the library then it could be closed. I doubt whether in the last year 24% of the town's population made use of the ambulance services. By this criteria the usage of any service which does not reach a target percentage could have its funding withdrawn. Just imagine the amount of money that could be saved.

Seriously though, I did not realise that the theatres were there only for those living within the boundaries of the town council. Malvern is fortunate to have its theatres attracting a wonderful mix of plays and entertainment. Furthermore, as acknowledged by Coun Ford, the theatre attract income for the town from people outside Malvern. Additionally, the theatres with the restaurant and bars provide employment for local people.

Now the district council has cut its grant to the theatres by £50,000. Do our local council representatives want flourishing theatres envied by many far beyond the boundaries of the district council as well as the town council? Theatres which put Malvern on the national artistic map. Judging by their narrow-minded, philistine views and actions the answer seems to be no.

It will be far too late when, within a few years, because of a lack of local financial support now, the theatres become unused and empty ghosts.

R J CULCHETH, Barnards Green Road, Malvern.