IT is understandable that businessman Mike Haycock should be feeling a little negative toward Malvern after being forced to close his Belle Vue Terrace shop due to lack of trade.

But, hand on heart, you have to say he has a point when he criticises the town for its lack of self promotion.

Take the Christmas lights switch-on, for example. Two years ago Church Street was packed for the event, but while town's like Ledbury and Bromyard are attracting ever larger crowds, Malvern has taken a step backwards.

The lights display itself looks good this year but the turnout last Friday, considering the range of activities laid on, was a little disappointing. But even when the people were there, a surprising number of shops remained closed.

Should the lights switch-on be a big event? How could it be improved? Write and let us know what you think.

IF one of your employees has done something extra special this year, why not reward them with a big bunch of flowers by entering the Employee of 2001 competition being run by Hunt's the Florist. The details are on page 5.