WE are again being told that Es and artificial colourings and additives are bad for children. Yes, I know that, and have done for a long time. And who is to blame? Our government.

Non-organic farmers have to use chemicals to rear cows and sheep so now our meat and milk is tainted. Crops are sprayed on a regular basis.

I also believe that since stringent health and hygiene issues came into force, we have so many sprays and cleaners that one can't be certain what substances we are inhaling.

In the early 1950s, my mother cleaned our house with soap and water, and it was polished from the kitchen, living room and sitting room (best room). I haven't included the bathroom. We didn't have one.

My dad had an allotment and used horse manure to grow vegetables and flowers. If he saw any manure in the road on his way home from work, I was sent with a shovel and newspaper to collect it. By the time I got there, someone else had usually beaten me to it!

These days no-one seems to want that 'free' allotment fertilizer. How times have changed.

So can I urge our Prime Minister and his government to legislate against the use of additives in food and drink, especially that aimed at young children, so they may grow up properly?

I am convinced food additives have something to do with the yobbish behaviour of so many of today's young people. I have a grandchild, aged five, who has to watch what he eats. Let's bring back wholesome, tasty food. Not the pre-packed, advertisement-driven convenience snacks which are ruining a nation's health.

Mrs Kath Crompton

Fox Street

Horwich