IT appears we are now a nation of copiers, especially of the American English.

The other day, while in Bolton Library a librarian said "fill out this form". I asked how to "fill out" something? It should surely be "fill in".

She was at a loss to explain. A blank space is surely "filled in"'. BEN Saturday September 2, Opinion Column, used "fill out" twice, "fill in" once, a confused writer, the article, "let's make official forms less taxing"!

I suggest they contact Bolton Library for the address of Americanisation lesson people.

Back in the early 70s I lived for a short period in Canada. When I came home I also thought it clever to use American terms "fill out", "side walk" etc. Fortunately we still had some pride and sanity then and I was soon forced to drop my clever ways. Our children have enough problems with English. I'm often asked: "Will you borrow me a" or "Can I lend a".

The yanks also never "take", it is "I've got to bring it to the shop". All this begs the question of are we in Europe or are we becoming an American state. But, we are already in a state of decline not knowing which way to turn, not even allowed to be English. Sadly, I'm old enough to remember when being English and England meant something. Now you will find us at the bottom of nearly every league.

D Pollitt

Towers Avenue

Deane