ISN’T IT reassuring to hear of so many Newport self-help groups joining forces to counter what all must see as the inevitable implosion of our city centre. Newport Cabinet joins the City Economic Network - hoorah! Newport Task Force rises like a phoenix from the ashes of Newport Unlimited (not so unlimited, apparently).

So, where does this leave Newport Rises? On the up? Possibly, or there again, possibly not.

Of course, in our supposedly democratic society, one should allow an equal opportunity to alternative groups to voice and unite their opinions. Will we shortly be hearing of a merger between the Newport Gradually Sinking Fund and the Uskside Apocalypse Now Confederation? How about a syndicate between the South Wales Cinderella City Society and the Last One Out Turn The Light Off charity?

With elections looming large on the horizon, surely it’s always best to take a balanced view.

Julian R Powell, Larch Grove, Malpas, Newport