I NOTE there seems to be a growing trend for events in this country which celebrate Independence Day.

I don’t have a problem with the celebrations themselves, as they mark the birth of the United States and citizens there are entitled to be proud of their heritage.

But why do we have to copy the Americans all the time?

Even Didcot Labour Club has been advertising its American-themed quiz and chilli night to mark July 4th! Is it because we lack the confidence to celebrate events such as St George’s Day, or is just any old excuse for a barbecue?

TIM GARDNER Banbury Road Oxford