SO Peter Inch thinks that it is an 'absurd notion' for our churches to try to attract young people by offering them more than just hymns and sermons.

In my letter I applauded the suggestion from C of E officials, that churches which are plagued by vandals, should do their best to get to know the troublemakers, and to try to channel their energies into something more positive.

I said how, when I was a teenager, churches and Sunday schools had darts teams, and held dances at the weekend. If my memory serves me right, some I believe, had football and rounders teams.

I find it hard to believe that anyone could think it absurd, to try to attract young people into the church, by offering more than just hymns and sermons, especially those young people who would otherwise have no interest in the church other than perhaps vandalising it.

I do not think for a minute that the yobs responsible for vandalising the graveyards would ever turn up at the vestry door wanting to play darts or rounders. But if they did, it is to be hoped that there are people in the church tolerant enough to allow them to participate.

I remember reading in the Bolton Evening News about a bowling club in Kearsley I think.

Now, I believe, this club has a very successful junior team.

Brian Derbyshire

Ribchester Grove

Bolton