TESCO wanted to build a new store, for which they would build a new school - one which would be state of the art and cost the taxpayer nothing.

They would also create new jobs. But planning permission was denied. B&Q wanted to build a new superstore, for which they would build a new stadium for Worcester City FC. This was a move that would leave the club debt-free and with a league standard ground able to bring football into the community.

It would create jobs and break the Homebase monopoly in the city. Again, planning permission was denied. If memory serves, Asda wanted to build on the old cattle market, which would help the regeneration of the City centre and create jobs. Again, permission denied.

So why so enthusiastic about Sainsbury's, who, after all are not giving much. There is already a football pitch and social club. So the net gain to the area is very little. When people ask for an environmental and traffic impact report, will the finding fall in favour of Sainbury's? Traffic impact was one of the deciding factors against Tesco, Asda and B&Q.

Supermarkets exert tremendous influence on the Labour Party. And if people think I am being paranoid or prone to conspiracy theories, then I suggest they read Shopped by Joanna Blythman. It provides an insight into how supermarkets influence local communities.

M SWIERS,

St Peter's,

Worcester.