I WAS very pleased to hear that the respected National Institute of Economic and Social Research is predicting a return to economic growth for Britain during the final months of 2009.

The statistics show a productive increase of 0.3 per cent and bring to an end the longest-lasting recession since 1921.

It is true to say, of course, that some have felt the pain of the downturn more than others and those adversely affected will welcome this recent news.

The official figures have yet to be announced, but what we have here is an encouraging sign.

LD Wilson, Guisborough, East Cleveland.