SIR - As Mayor of Worcester I spend a great deal of my time extolling the virtues of the city, particularly to visitors from home and abroad.

I believe it is my job to ensure that wherever possible all are left with a good impression of Worcester.

It is not particularly hard to do, as the comments in the visitors' book in the parlour show; this is a great place and the envy of many other towns and cities.

I do agree, however, that there are areas of Worcester that sometimes do not meet the high standards to which we all aspire, as quite rightly pointed out by Mike Foster, the local MP, in your newspaper. Thank you for that and I am sure the council will rectify the problem identified.

However, to counterbalance the criticism I would ask Mr Foster to join me and go around the city to point out the many good things there are. Let us join together and project the city as a vibrant place to live and relocate or start a business. If we find an area with a problem, let us again join together to see about having that problem resolved.

Imagine the MP and the mayor in a non-political alliance projecting the positive side of the city. That could only have a beneficial influence on anyone's decision-making if they are considering relocating to, or visiting, our city. Let's work together for the good of the city and if that means someone else's fly-tipping is removed, so be it.

So come on, Mr Foster - join me to ensure Worcester is a place that you and I can both be proud to represent. Let us talk the city up and make sure that people enjoy the experience of being here in whatever capacity.

You have a position of power and I have a position of influence. Let us use them together, Worcester can only benefit.

MAYOR OF WORCESTER IAN IMRAY, Worcester.