SIR — Re yourt report on the 'shared space' idea (Free Press December 20), Minehead is an attractive town and environment with its own unique integral character which does not need a 'new look' to bring it in to line with any other 'identikit' town centres.

We have our share of eyesore buildings but for the most part The Avenue has survived together with a wide pavement, period frontages, trees, feature walling and shrubs which still provide a residential ambience.

Where there are extended frontages these are already utilised for café seating or display of wares and give the area a 'Continental' feel.

With a very high percentage of elderly, the idea of mixing cars and trucks with people is nothing short of stupidity.

Paula Brain-Smith,

Burgundy Road,

Minehead.