I WAS delighted to read in last week’s Guardian that the big screen in Walthamstow centre is being used to good effect!

Having spent some time abroad where such screens are common and add to the community feel of an area by screening events that attract large audiences, I was really encouraged to see that the Royal Opera’s The Barber of Seville will be one of 42 free screenings around the country.

As a mother with two children there is no way I could afford to take my children to Covent Garden’s Royal Opera House and this is the next best thing!

Not only will it provide a opportunity to those unable to afford going to see such events, it also acts as a perfect vehicle to bring high culture to the masses.

All those naysayers who said the screen was a waste of money should bow down now and recognise that the screen has great potential to brighten up the borough with free screenings providing entertainment and education. I’ll be hoping for lovely day so I can take a picnic and introduce my children to the magic of opera.

Michelle Stevens, Farmilo Road, Walthamstow.