SIR – It was disappointing to learn that after much deliberation and incurring unnecessary costs via recruiting agencies, a decision had been taken by Bradford Council to appoint a person who is currently working as a chief executive for the City of York Council, (T&A 10 April).

It transpires that Kersten England has held several senior positions with various councils , including Bradford, over the previous 22 years.

This suggests a professional executive type of person, who would move from one position to another to further her career, rather than being truly passionate about her hometown.

Bradford Council had the opportunity of choosing a local person, perhaps somebody who had been successful in business, is passionate about their hometown and has a wider experience of life than a professional bureaucrat.

In marked contrast, how inspiring it was to read of the late Gordon Moore, former chief executive of Bradford Council, who at short notice helped to organise the Disaster Appeal following the Bradford City Fire, and who even today is remembered with fondness and reverence.

Jim Greenhalf’s splendid article (T&A, April 8) brought back vivid memories of the fire and the city’s magnificent response.

Oh, how times have changed for the worse!

Alec Suchi, Allerton Road, Bradford