I am frequently struck by the contrast in tone of your two political columnists.

Michael Ancram regularly contributes a column which is both interesting and thought provoking.

The articles are admirable for the wide scope of subject matter they embrace: from local issues, such as the crisis in our chalk rivers, to an analysis of the situation in the Balkans. He successfully rises above the party political fray to inform and stimulate his readers. This sort of approach does much to encourage an interest in politics in this country.

What a contrast then with the petulant, often negative tone of James Gray's column.

It is precisely his party political sniping which turns so many people against politics.

Could we remind Mr Gray that, as an MP, he is in a most privileged position. He owes it to the public whose taxes pay his wages to promote fair debate and democracy. It's his duty to encourage our interest in politics and not put us off it. If Mr Ancram and others can manage this, then, in future, perhaps he could try.

S.R. Beggs

Corsham