READING the first couple of sentences in the letter by Geoff Pollitt (BEN: November 14) I thought to myself 'What a refreshing change'. Then it was back to banal reality, with wave after wave of insults and the usual distorted rantings on homosexuality.

Peter Tatchell did not hijack the word 'gay', it has been used for over 30 years (well before Tatchell's reign) and is in the dictionary to describe homosexuals. As for alternative, more suitable, words, try any bar room or playground. There are plenty of clever and quite amusing ones doing the rounds. Failing that, watch episode two, second series 'Queer as Folk' where one of the characters is 'outing' himself to his parents. He must use just about every adjective known to modern man, and you'll find it much more amusing than scouring any dictionary.

I really do not know the facts, other than what you describe, concerning the shopping trips with your neighbour, but it does seem rather strange that you gave them up because you thought that people imagined you were queers. Perhaps the finger-pointing had got to you -- I really know that feeling as I've endured it for years, but I would imagine it to be more unnerving especially being straight. On the other hand the majority of my friends are straight and they have no problem being seen either shopping or socialising with me. But then my friends are civilised, intelligent human beings with no hang-ups.

As for the anti-marches and confrontations, as you call them Geoff. Would you sit back and think it fair to be treated like a second class citizen just because you do not conform to what is deemed normal? I'm quite sure you wouldn't and neither will Alan Horsfall or Peter Tatchell. These are men with an aim, a vision that everyone should be treated as equals. Only then will they be satisfied by the gains, and, yes, we aren't special, we're ordinary everyday folk going about our ordinary everyday business contributing to this country probably much as yourself. As for the 'holier than thou brigade'. They are most certainly not on our side, as many letters to this page would testify and, surprisingly, most people do not find us repulsive.

Derek Hilton

Oldhams Terrace,

Astley Bridge, Bolton.