In the past Matthew d’Ancona’s columns irritated me no end (although at no point did I ever wish he was not a Guardian writer). Now, however, I find myself agreeing almost every week with everything he says. Worse, I look forward to his columns. Who or what has changed: is it him, is it me or is it just the world?
Dr Geoffrey Samuel
Blean, Kent
• I have nothing at all against special constables. But let’s just pause for a moment and consider what kind of person would volunteer to be a Border Force officer (Security fears over proposed volunteer border guards, 1 January).
Farah Mendlesohn
Stoke on Trent
• Reading the article about “drunk tanks” (‘Drunk tank’, not A&E, is the best place to send intoxicated revellers, says NHS chief, 29 December), it occurs that there is a commercial opportunity here. Would Wetherspoons and Greene King, or other similar companies be interested in sponsoring these and having their logos emblazoned on the facilities?
Pam Roud
Somersham, Cambridgeshire
• John Banville says he’s never finished a Jane Austen novel (Review, 30 December). I’ve never finished a John Banville novel, if anyone’s interested.
David Kemp
Glasgow
• May the stars keep on shining, the sun and moon keep on eclipsing, and meteors keep on falling for Alan Pickup after his last Starwatch (1 January).
Neville Goodman
Bristol
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