Has Coronation Street really lost the plot?

I AGREE with some of the criticism of Coronation Street (Letters) that it’s lost its light-hearted side and its plots can be depressing. However, some of the serious storylines are excellent, such as the exploration of domestic abuse involving Geoff and Yasmeen. My main gripe is that this soap has a cast of thousands. Certain characters are involved in a story for four or five weeks, then they disappear, never to be seen or even mentioned again, which would be unusual for such a small community. Instead of bringing in new characters, it would be better if the writers and producers concentrated on the regulars in the Street.

G. COOPEr, Penzance, Cornwall.

WHETHER or not grim storylines make bad TV is a matter of opinion, but they certainly don’t make it unwatchable. On the contrary, Corrie is one of Britain’s mostwatched soaps, beaten in the ratings only by EastEnders. It has certainly changed a great deal since the Sixties and, of course, this won’t appeal to everyone. But the days of banter in the local market and laughter in the pub have descended into darker times simply because the writers and producers need to keep things interesting. Engrossing storylines are the anchor of any soap and without them fans would stop watching. But what’s interesting and compelling doesn’t always make us smile. If Coronation Street is to survive against other soaps, it will always need to have a sinister side.

E. LAMPLOUGH, Trowbridge, Wilts.