I AM used to people having a pop at me, but calling me “pompous”

– as did Susan Willis (HAS, Dec 26) – is just plain stupid.

I have never been hoity-toity in my life, and I have no desire to change into a snob as I proudly come from a working class background.

Why do certain people, mainly females I must state, get upset when they see my name in HAS?

All they are doing when they complain is getting my name in print again.

I’m the first to admit I am a little different from most others, as I come from a family of eccentrics. My Uncle Freddie, God love him, used to have conversations with his tomato plant every day, but to label me “pompous” is as insane as custard with cabbage.

Thanks for the insult, Ms Willis. You made me laugh out loud. Game of polo, anyone?

Christopher Wardell, Darlington.

I HAVE been disappointed by some recent correspondence to HAS advocating censorship, not simple opposition, of some views expressed.

The page is after all Hear All Sides and the diversity of opinions is its strength.

On occasion, we contributors fail to get our meaning across – and at other times it may not be a populist opinion – but it is important that readers, as well as writers, show a modicum of tolerance.

Meanwhile, I thank editor Peter Barron and Hear All Sides for their even-handedness and the opportunity of expression.

How else are we to become enlightened?

Gerard Wild, Richmond, North Yorkshire.