Your article about the proposed closure of the internationally renowned ceramics course at the University of Westminster must cause the greatest concern to all those who care about the arts ('University thrown into confusion over the future of its ceramics course', Observer, January 29).

Harrow has a long tradition of high quality education in the arts. This is sustained in the very high standards of art in our local schools and colleges, many of whose students go on to follow art-based degrees at university or in other higher education institutions.

The University of Westminster ought to be the guardian of this great Harrow tradition at higher education level. The ceramics course is one of the jewels in its crown which it should do every-thing in its power to preserve.I hope all those who care about the arts will write to the vice-chancellor of the University of Westminster asking him to reconsider his decision and sign the online Downing Street petition athttp://petitions.number10.gov.uk/ CeramicsHarrow/. Although the Harrow Campus of the University of Westminster is not strictly in Harrow, I have also asked the two Harrow MPs to intervene because of the very longstanding connections and association between the University of Westminster art courses and Harrow.

COUNCILLOR BILL STEPHENSON

Leader Labour Group Harrow Council