John Warr, of Bovey Tracey, writes:
With regard to your article regarding the lack of seating at appropriate places in the Bovey Tracey cemetery, I have every sympathy with James Small and many others like him who are deprived of a place of rest, particularly in the town centre.
I also acknowledge the validity of the issues put forward by Cllr George Gribble and other councillors in that you cannot meet the needs of everyone and it would appear that at least they are reconsidering the options at the cemetery.
Several weeks ago I spoke to Cllr Gribble with regard to replacing a bench in the town centre, which was urgently needed by the frail elderly and disabled, and he undertook to raise the matter at the next council meeting.
He promised to advise me regarding the outcome of discussions but, to date, I have not had the courtesy of his response. Is this the attitude we should expect from the chairman of Bovey Tracey Town Council?
For those with disabilities or other mobility restrictions who are advised by the medical profession to walk as much as possible to aid their recovery, I find that the half-mile distance into the town centre is about my limit.
Adequate rest is then essential in preparation for the return journey, which includes climbing a steep hill. There is no alternative.
Cllr Gribble has advised that the decision to remove the original bench near Spar was taken by the police, not the council.
In other words, law enforcement was to take the easy option of giving way to the yobs who were causing the problems, thereby depriving the needs of the frail elderly and disabled.