I fully support the views of Kent Brooks on the subject of opening a coal mine in Cumbria (March 1, 'A long history of mining').

Many people seem not to acknowledge the part mining and quarrying played in the development of the Lake District. He is quite right when he says it is an indigenous industry and would be of great benefit to the area.

We also have to consider the amount of pollution from burning marine fuel oil in transporting coal and wood pellets half way round the world for our essential industry supplies.

The coal we import must be burned. Add to this the additional pollution and cost in transport and it’s obvious the answer is to mine it here. It reduces the pollution, makes the coal cheaper and provides the employment. It’s a win-win.

R. Quirk

Ulverston