IN THESE competitive days, a commercial operation must fight hard to succeed.

The Full Pitcher's paint scheme serves it well in three ways. Firstly, it attracts customers (on the basis that the interior of the pub is the only place from which the green paint cannot be seen?). Secondly, it attracts the attention of tourists in cars, who are then possibly persuaded to visit a town they might otherwise have bypassed. Thirdly, it raises public awareness of the Full Pitcher by promoting a 'talking shop' in the local paper.

The paint scheme does not violate local bye-laws. Various people may have opinions as to a better colour - but it is none of their business.

ROBERT KAY, Hambrook, Ledbury.