SIR — It brought a tear to my eye to read the letter "I wouldn't choose to go back there" (Free Press November 16).

Straightaway I thought of the beautiful flower display we had this summer in the Parade — maybe we should put photos of these in empty shop windows so on dull days we can remember them.

A while ago I bought a book called "Remembering the High Street" by Gordon Thorburn.

On the back cover was a list of shops that used to be on every high street — butcher, baker, grocer, greengrocer, draper, Boots, ironmonger, pub, W H Smith, cafe, bank, Freeman Hardy and Willis, jeweller, Marks and Spencer, furniture shop, hotel, second-hand bookseller, off licence, haberdasher, Woolworths, confectioner, cobbler, tobacconist, electrical showroom, Burtons, gas showroom, ladies fashion, Home and Colonial, department store.

Of the 31 listed, MInehead has 24 — see if you agree.

Some not mentioned — hairdressers, florists, sports shops — are mostly independents run by friendly people offering a personal service at competitive prices, trying hard to keep Minehead vibrant.

Charity shops have their place, working for good causes and run by volunteers, some who have lost family members, like the company and are doing their part for Minehead.

The letter mentions empty pubs and restaurants — how do you suggest we make it better for them? Lots have been refurbished and sell good food with a friendly smile.

We then have the lifeboat service and fire service whose work places have to give them time off when needed in emergencies.

Blenheim Gardens is a treasure, kept so beautifully with a wonderful cafe and play area for children, much appreciated on sunny days, and a bandstand used in the summer.

Yes it may lose its toilets but people behind the scenes are trying to save them.

I must confess I have a personal interest as my husband is chairman of the chamber of trade and works all hours day and night for the love of Minehead while running his own business with the support of his staff so he can go to meetings, trying to make things better for Minehead.

The old hospital is another project high on his list, but hopefully you all know how to try and make it the hub for the town.

I feel lucky to live in Minehead, we have wonderful scenery, good schools, and a caring service for the elderly second to none.

We have friendly shops where you can buy everything for the home and garden.

I just had to put pen to paper to support everyone who works so hard for Minehead, who run their own shops or work behind the scene.

Angie Sizer,

Mount Royal,

Weirfield Road,

Minehead.