SIR — I was interested to read in last week’s Free Press the letter from Sally Hall lamenting the loss of the bands in Blenheim Gardens.

Although Blenheim Gardens is owned by West Somerset Council, I am happy to inform Ms Hall that Minehead Town Council has recently reached agreement with the district council that on Saturdays and Sundays between May and mid-September this year, the town council will be booking the bands for Blenheim Gardens.

This is already in progress and the town clerk has booked more than 12 bands (silver, brass, jazz, rock and accordion). Several other bands have made enquiries about the remaining vacant dates.

The town council has also submitted an “expression of interest” in taking over the ownership of Blenheim Gardens and other “amenity land” such as the Parks Walk from West Somerset Council. We hope that these submissions will be looked upon favourably by the district council.

Negotiations to take over public conveniences in Minehead are proceeding well and should be concluded very soon.

I can assure Ms Hall that the town council will continue to prioritise services to residents whilst supporting tourism in Minehead.

Cllr Jean Parbrook,

Mayor,

Minehead Town Council.