SIR — I freely admit that I have publicly expressed my concerns as to the democracy or not of having an un-elected town council but, and it is a very big but, it is very encouraging that, irrespective of how we finished up with this council, our new town council seems keen to resolve various past issues and sticking points and look to the future, which must surely be in the broader best interests of Minehead.

In last week's Free Press, I note that the town council is in negotiations with Minehead Football Club over the possibility of the club being granted a 25-year lease on the pitch and buildings.

I don't know the facts behind the long running history between the football club and the council, but assuming that the football club is sufficiently financially sound as to be able to meet their future lease payments, and ongoing costs for maintenance and lighting etc, then security of tenure would surely benefit the club and sports enthusiasts in the area, as well as hopefully opening the way for the club to secure additional funding, and if there are ways in which the buildings can be opened up for wider public usage then all the better.

Having attended several council meetings recently, I hope that the frustrations of having to follow seemingly circuitous procedures, together with the limitations of often being unable to do anything more than put forward recommendations to the district council on matters that directly affect the town, will not stifle councillors' enthusiasm, particularly those for whom this is a new responsibility.

Some people may view the new town council's actions as future vote winners, but as far as I am concerned, if doing the right thing is a vote catcher then so be it.

If you do the right thing, why shouldn't that be a future vote catcher?

P Davies,

Queens Road,

Minehead.