READING Margaret Burke's hilarity regarding American visitors being directed to the Fish Market when asking the way to the Information Office reminded me of my first visit to the United States and wishing "to spend a penny" I was directed to "The Restroom" even though I was not particularly tired.

Margaret Burke should remember that this is England and we are inclined to be eccentric.

Had her American tourists visited York they would have found the Information Office located in The Shambles, a visit to Birmingham would have led them to The Bull Ring and so on.

At least by visiting Warrington's Fish Market our transatlantic cousins would have the opportunity to appreciate the fine example of medieval architecture in the form of the Barley Mow. They may even have lingered inside and sampled a pint of honest ale, something the Americans seem unable to achieve.

ADAM BALL

Rose Bank,

Lymm?