I AM a South African born in Pretoria. I think that I have some interesting information for you regarding the vuvuzela debate.

I am being totally honest and I have spoken to many South Africans about it.

In 1994 South Africa won the Africa Cup of Nations. The final was held at Soccer City. Some of my friends attended the match and have many fond memories of it.

There was no vuvuzela then. South Africans have incredible voices and can sing very well. At that match, they sang many traditional African songs, which made the atmosphere very beautiful. These songs are a more truthful representation of South African culture and tradition than the vuvuzela is.

I know of a few people who bought many tickets to see various World Cup games, but after attending the first game decided not to attend any others because of the unpleasant atmosphere. They are now trying to sell or give away their remaining tickets.

Some South Africans I know are proud of the fact that many international soccer players fear the vuvuzela and that it will help our team win.

I am not proud of this. If it gives an unfair advantage, what hashappened to the beautiful game?

If we South Africans really care about our guests, we would give up the vuvuzela.

What is the point of strict influenza controls at airports when the vuvuzela needs one to blow in a spitting fashion into it?

I was about to buy tickets for the game in Bombela-Nelspruit for myself and three of my children. However, when trying to make a final decision, the thought of the vuvuzela put me off.

The vuvuzela is not a traditional South African fan instrument. Ask us for how long it has been in existence. ? It is monotonous and has no melody.

Dino Valente, Pretoria