Sir, Having watched the stone-cleaning at the Peebles war memorial which I presume has to be finished before November 11, I hope after 45 years in the building industry that what I see today (October 29) is not the finished job?

At the top, below the copper dome, the cornice and pediments appear not to have been touched. I do not know how many man hours were spent on this job - a lot - but two labourers and a pressure washer could have done a better job.

I hope those responsible for this contract on the council will inspect the work before payment is made.

I am, etc.

James B Borland Peebles