Letter: Falling standards

The declining speech standards eloquently described by Andrew Gray (Letters, 4 June) are even worse than he suggests. No attractive presenter is necessary, as attested by a DIY company TV commercial with a disembodied voice-over replete with deliberate glottal stops.

The same applies to grammatical inaccuracy, as in "each person must decide for themselves" - I've even come across the mongrel "themself". Scruffy knowledge of basic language use will surely see the apostrophe abandoned, although its correct use is perfectly simple - if properly taught.

Meanwhile, I wonder how many readers will find fault with a phrase from your account of a new biography on Prince Philip, in which he is described as "having a love of speed, sailing and an irresistible charm".

ROBERT DOW

Ormiston Road

Tranent

WE write with regard to Mr Gray's comment in reference to BBC Scotland weather presenter Cat Cubie and her "glottal stops". Being unable to compose an intellectual reply, we can only say: please get a life and let Miss Cubie continue with her job, which she carries out in a most competent manner.

If you feel that you could perform her job in a more professional manner, we look forward to seeing you on television soon.

HENRY and EMMA BILOTTI

Drumby Crescent

Clarkston, Glasgow