Re the proposed fire service cuts, it is said that a fire engine from Minehead could reach Porlock in 15 to 20 minutes.

Let us not forget that Minehead Fire Station is manned by retained firefighters, and I understand that from a 999 call a further 15 to 20 minutes elapses whilst the watch leave wherever they happen to be and the fire engine is being despatched.

Hence, from phoning to arrival at Porlock could easily be 40 minutes – and the Minehead watch may not be as familiar with the area as the Porlock watch are – more time taken.

Regarding a Porlock fire occurring at Doverhay in particular, the parked cars would not allow the passage of a fire engine. Those parking there need to think of the possible consequences of their actions.

P D Boobier, St Michael’s Road, Minehead.