The head of English at Sheffield Hallam University refers, after the axing of its English literature and English language degrees, to “our refreshed English programme” (Letters, 1 July). I hope that this use of the weasel word “refreshed” to mean “axed” is not an indication of the direction of the university’s new BA English degree programme.
Sara Mills
Emeritus professor in English linguistics, Sheffield Hallam University
I would like to praise Bob the homing pigeon for his commitment to reducing his carbon footprint (Sweet home Alabama: errant Gateshead pigeon takes diversion to US, 1 July). By choosing to cross the Atlantic by boat rather than flying, he has set an example to us all. Is he the Ian Grieve of the avian world?
Fiona Collins
Carrog, Sir Ddinbych
Recently, I noticed in a Norfolk village that a defibrillator had been installed in an old red phone box. Could this be one of the “40 new hospitals” that the prime minister promised us?
Chris Sexton
Crowthorne, Berkshire
From what I can make out in your article (Chris Pincher loses Tory whip over misconduct allegations, 1 July), there is more touching up and screwing up than levelling up from this government.
Margaret Coupe
Longnor, Staffordshire
Great day out at Wimbledon on Sunday, fabulous tennis and the most fantastic sight of all: a long line of men queueing for the toilets. Heaven.
Mary Foley
Wandsworth, London
