SIR — As the debate about immigration continues with so many negative comments made about new arrivals, we would like to speak positively about the situation from our own experiences. We aim to foster the growth of understanding and friendship between different cultural groups emerging in West Somerset and to generate ideas and resources which offer a welcome to all newcomers. Hospitals and care homes are just two examples of how immigrants have made a positive impact on our local communities. Many newly arrived managers, doctors, pharmacists, nurses and care workers have come with their families in recent years to work in our communities. We have been proud in the past year to welcome friends from Western and Eastern Europe to the area to enjoy and contribute to the hospitality of our towns and villages. They have a positive spirit and many new and lasting friendships have been formed. Myths abound about immigration, but the fact is Britain has always been a country of new arrivals, whether it has been Irish builders or Indian restaurateurs, and West Somerset is now a reflection of such enriching cultural diversity. We welcome all people to our community and we aim to spread our message of inter cultural friendship throughout West Somerset. We will continue to work alongside churches, trade unions and schools to welcome people of all cultures by organising events that include impressive music and delicious food. Immigration does not negatively affect British culture. It is an opportunity to embrace, not a threat to be feared. Anyone interested in knowing more about our group can, of course, contact us on 01984 634984 or 07896867799. We are holding an evening of food and music at The Sanctuary in Swain Street, Watchet, on Saturday June 14 at 7.30pm. Please contact us for more details. Pete Stevenson, Michelle Capps, Jon Freeman, Julie Anne Harvey Smith, Lorna Scott, Meredith Gray, West Somerset Inter Cultural Friendship Group.