SIR: Looking at the escalating rise in violent crime over the past years there is scope to point an causing finger at numerous causes.

However in terms of sheer hard-hitting, uncompromising consistency, television stands head and shoulders above the rest.

To those who argue that there is an 'off' button I would retort that many youngsters who are subjected to their elder's viewing habits are not in a position to press it.

Violence breeds violence. Whilst we as a nation revel in watching it, we are condoning it. If a weak-minded thug sees on TV a violent scene and is impressed by it, he will want to re-create it if the opportunity prevails. And often it does.

The really sad fact is that violence on TV is positively glorified. Where TV is really guilty is in that is sows seeds in sick minds.

I have written to the TV Companies and told them how I feel. I hope others will do the same. God knows, it's long overdue.

Graham Baxter

Bromwich Street

Bolton

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