I have never felt the need to write to any organisation about their television programmes however I am making an exception in the case of The Bill.

 What a disaster the new format is! Obviously, the new format is designed to save money. Cheap scripts, atmospheric shots of characters contemplaing their actions have all replaced the "all singing, all dancing" programme it used to be.

And if this is not bad enough home video quality camera work makes the programme nearly unwatchable. Obviously, this is not the fault of the camera operator but the director who demands this shoddy workmanship in an effort to create atmosphere.

When STV stopped screening The Bill recently, I was quite perplexed and searched for it through Sky's many channels. Now I understand fully why many regions are not screening The Bill anymore. The whole programme is a disaster and I really do feel for the actors who front this.

 As a full time teacher, I do not have time to watch TV but I did always make time for the very well made The Bill. Not any more.

Lesley