SIR — It is very pleasing to see the Old Ship Aground being smartened up and we very much look forward to its reopening in September.

It is a very important harbour-side building with a long history. Its former name of The Pier Hotel tells its own story. This building makes a strong contribution to the conservation area as well as being a popular eating and watering hole in a prime position.

Our society supports the retention of traditional pub signs, particularly in conservation areas, which are sadly less evident than they used to be, to the great detriment of our country's heritage. Overseas visitors love them and many, many British people bemoan their demise.

We should like to ask the new owners of the Old Ship Aground to consider, if they have not already done so, erecting such a sign. We are extremely fortunate in Minehead to have an excellent traditional signwriter, in Summerland Place, who we feel sure would produce an eye-catching picture for such a dramatically named pub.

We firmly believe that it would enhance the conservation area, add interest to the quayside and attract customers to the establishment.

Mrs S Bainbridge,

Minehead Conservation Society