I READ with interest Mr Brian Derbyshire's letter of May 11 and his comments regarding the problems associated with the area he is living in and, in particular, the potential control from the police.

Naturally, he was referring to approaching drug problems from a lower level and gradually attacking more serious problems as a slow process upwards. Although, in theory, his solution has potential, and he should be awarded gratitude for taking interest, can I point out why his theories will never work.

As a resident on the Johnson Fold Estate, I recently received a letter from Ruth Kelly MP, asking my opinions on how such problems as drugs, anti-social behaviour, vandalism and cleanliness of the estate could be addressed. This was in response to the allocation of £12m to Bolton Council's "Neighbourhood Renewal Fund".

My reply was to inform her that, unfortunately, all the above issues can be put down to a social problem. Although it is a subject which has been recorded to the point of boredom, we cannot escape the fact all problems we face as a community lay firmly at the feet of the parents. Frankly, unless you are a fortunate child with parents who teach you right from wrong and chastise you for doing bad, the child will aspire to what they learn from older children living in the same environment.

Unless there is a radical change in police and criminal punishment, we are purely treading water. I recently experienced such anti-social behaviour which has forced me to make in-roads to leave the area, because there is no control.

I admire Ruth Kelly and her attempts to target the problems concerned. Yet it does not fill me with any positive response, as I predict it will merely provide a sheen and a facade, and, until strict punishment is implemented by the Government, nothing will change.

I apologise to Mr Derbyshire and his valiant suggestions, but all I can say, in a negative fashion, is: be prepared for much of the same.

(Name and address supplied)