IT is just a matter of days before the Easter bank holidays, and hopefully the sight of visitors will gladden the hearts of the local leisure and retail industries.

However, I fear what these welcome guests will think of Durham City’s Market Square.

Presently Neptune has disappeared, presumably back to Wharton Park, and his plinth is boarded round.

Further, the damaged seating remains unrepaired, while the almost demolished power box by Tesco is surrounded by the mandatory red and white barriers. Add to this, collision damage to several bollards, lampposts and traffic signs, plus the thousands of pieces of chewing gum, we have a most unedifying sight for our tourist to behold.

If Durham is to compete as a destination of choice for holidaymakers, it must get its act together very, very quickly.

Many of the problems have existed for months. Perhaps the current financial crisis means money to remedy the situation is in short supply. If this is the case, may I suggest the council kindly asks Durham County Cricket Club for a loan.

B Jackson, Sacriston.