SIR - I had the pleasure of attending, for the first time, the Festival of Remembrance at St George's Hall.

What a privilege and honour it was to be present and in the company of so many former soldiers who were there not only to remember the lives of their former colleagues and friends who perished in the Second World War, but also those who have died in more recent conflicts.

I want to congratulate the organisers who put together such a wonderful programme which combined musical entertainment with a very moving service of remembrance that was a fitting tribute to the lives of those lost in wars to give this nation the freedom and liberty that exists in the present day.

Councillor Kris Hopkins summed it up perfectly: "It is so important that we continue this act of remembrance."

My final comment is reserved for the DM Academy Dance School based in Shipley. I, along with many others sitting close to me, were thoroughly entertained and amazed by the performances, particularly the younger children in the group.

You were an integral part of a terrific evening.

Stephen Hetherington, Swinton Place, Bradford