TO assert that Welsh is a "hobby language", used only occasionally in pubs, shows not only a lack of knowledge about life a few miles down the road across the border, but is disrespectful.

With organisations in all sectors offering more bilingual services, they obviously need people with bilingual skills to deliver them. Therefore, the ability to speak or write in Welsh, is a valuable skill, just like computer or financial skills, so the ability to work bilingually is very desirable if not essential. This is one of the major factors which continues to drive the demand for Welsh-medium education and vocational training, as young people and parents recognise the economic value of the Welsh language.

Welsh is a compulsory subject for all schools in Wales and means children study Welsh (either as a first or a second language) from the ages of five to 16, since its inclusion in the National Curriculum, as prescribed in the 1988 Education Act.

Many advantages in teaching Welsh to young children have been demonstrated, such as cognitive advantages, where research indicates that bilingual children tend to think more creatively and flexibly, when they have more than one word for every object and concept. Additionally, bilingual speakers find it easier to learn other languages.

Welsh speakers have an absolute right to speak Welsh in court; and S4C broadcasts many hours of television in Welsh each week and attracts large audiences, especially for rugby (a sport the English are beginning to master) when famous stars like Gareth Edwards can be heard evaluating games in Welsh.

With Herefordshire so close to the border, all our neighbours can expect a warm welcome in the principality, and find that all signs are bilingual to avoid confusion, and provide huge entertainment whilst learning a few words from an old language that is thriving! Lechyd da (good health).

PETER PROSSER,

Maryport Street, Usk, Wales.