DAILY Echo letters (December 14 and 15) have the nub of debate about Southampton. Yes, we already have the wow factor and our own identity to build on: historical elements and commerce regrown from marine heritage. The sign welcoming you into Southampton has the elegance of the liner's bow.

Please look at the final destination of many of Titanic's passengers; Halifax, Nova Scotia. Their people brought in and buried our people. Go and look at their waterside - nothing flashy. A working harbour meets the city on the waterline, with board-walk for us all, including refreshment.

First class information in exhibition: the Titanic and Halifax harbour disasters, and Pier 21, the immigrant ship reception hall, where an office electronically links family detail and will produce copy in 15 minutes. Alongside, feet away from the 'Doctor's window' is moored a visiting cruise liner.

We suggest a visit, including laying of wreaths at the cemeteries.

MR AND MRS M R M SMITH, Romsey.