THE EDITOR, Sir:

I had taken a short 'leave' from writing but I saw something on the Hill and Gully Ride programme last Sunday that stimulated my interest so much that I could not resist the urge to write.

It had to do with a project in handicraft, initiated by one Mr Neil at a place called Strathbogie, near Savanna-la-Mar in Westmoreland.

This gentleman was teaching the young people to make beautiful basketry from the wicker straw grown locally.

It reminds me of the good old days when young people, who were not academically inclined, would find employment in creating beautiful and useful articles in strawwork.

It is activities like these that will take young people off the streets, and find work for idle hands to do.

Mr Prime Minister, we need more of this kind of occupation; please encourage it.

I am, etc.,

PATRICIA POWELL

Southfield P.O.