We have been told by various officials of the benefits of the Olympic events being held here in 2012 and how ‘we’ will benefit.

What hasn't been explained is why we are spending money like it’s going out of fashion on this brief event for elite athletes, yet in the same breath we talk of some 600,000 people losing their jobs and large cut backs in services.

Given the choice (and that’s not likely to happen), I would rather this money was spent otherwise.

For example, £16million is being spent now on changing the traffic system to allow Olympic officials to be given a clear run on their way between events.

Does anyone believe this system would have been started otherwise? Much is made of a surge in jobs due to the Olympics, but they are not long term and will be low paid.

I just think it is so unfair on the large numbers who will suffer due to the necessary cut backs to be so profligate.

Still I suppose the unemployed can look at the new sailing centre whilst they go to queue for their benefits, that is, of course, assuming any benefits exist by then.

Rod Stone, Farm Close, Southill