SIR — Re your report 'Drunken youths mar carnival weekend' last week, I did not say that the carnival weekend had been marred.

What I did say was that it was absolutely appalling that a very small minority had spoilt what was an otherwise superb weekend by acts of vandalism after the carnival celebrations had finished.

Also, I did not condemn the lack of action by local police. The local officers worked very hard and I personally was involved in the arrest of one person for criminal damage and helped officers during the night.

I was critical of the police response group brought in from outside of the area, who I saw take no action against young people being drunk and abusive outside the carnival celebrations and who left the area before the event had finished (and had to be called back) on one evening and at the close on the others, rather than stay around and keep an eye on the obviously drunk (or something else) young troublemakers whilst the local officers were busy.

I would further add that the carnival security and 'no glass or bottles' rules on the East Wharf were an excellent and well-policed idea.

Finally, could I point out that I am not chairman of the town council, as was stated.

John Richards,

The Old Bank,

The Esplanade,

Watchet.

SIR — I read with considerable disappointment your front page report last week in which Cllr John Richards levelled criticism at the police service.

Additionally I was disappointed that your reporter did not consult me or Phil Turner, the local sergeant on duty at the carnival, to provide a balanced report.

The event was a tremendous success and, as you quite rightly highlighted on Page 11 last week, there was real party atmosphere, which is a credit to the carnival committee.

It is sad that the conduct of a few mindless idiots spoil it for the majority of the community.

In respect of the damage caused, one person was arrested during the event and a further two people will be arrested in connection with the damage caused that evening.

Inspector R Price,

Minehead Police.