MARTIN Ketterer's somewhat caustic remarks (Letters, November 3) on two leading BBC productions may be shared by some. However the views of the masses as evidenced by TV ratings would suggest otherwise.

Sadly the BBC, with the exception of its news and political programmes, has become an also-ran in the nation's entertainment stakes. Being unable to financially compete with the giant independent TV companies the BBC's former portfolio on almost all major sports has disappeared. Compared to the daily repeats churn of Homes Under The Hammer, Bargain Hunt, Escape to and Pointless, the Strictly and Apprentice productions spiral to almost star quality ratings.

Allan C Steele,

22 Forres Avenue, Giffnock.

MARTIN Ketterer wisely counsels that the BBC should take care that current hit the Great British Bake Off is not overdone and goes the way of the now stale Apprentice and Strictly Come Dancing, although I guess that for some of us it has always been The Great British Turn-Off.

What is required, of course, is some thinking out of the box and more beach volleyball.

R Russell Smith,

96 Milton Road, Kilbirnie.