SIR — I think like the majority of people in West Somerset I would wish to express my gratitude to the fire crews who fought the blaze on North Hill. The local retained and regular brigade members did an outstanding job.

We must of course remember the other agencies that spent time on the hill. I believe even the Salvation Army was there.

We should not forget that we rely on the efforts of many volunteers in this area, including the lifeboatmen.

The destruction of an area of beauty is bad enough, but the deaths of so many innocent creatures if proved to be arson is unforgivable. The hill is a place for everyone. The dog walkers, cyclists, horse riders and the people who sit or stroll to enjoy the air and the sense of tranquillity.

If it was arson I hope the person responsible is ashamed at what they have done. If anyone knows anything they should report it to the police.

However, if it was not, it shows that everyone who uses North Hill must take care not to leave any item that is combustible on the hill. Please don't smoke up there — if you do, don't discard burning matches or cigarette ends.

With the old Lido site the only other area that could have been used for tourists is a building site, an area given to the town and sold by our council without a mandate or without consultation, North Hill is the only asset we have.

We need to take care of it to prevent our council giving it away by some means or other for more houses no one wants, to keep it as a place of beauty for our children as green sites disappear, a place for the many diverse creatures and birds that give so many people pleasure to thrive.

Dudley R Seale,

Hillview Close,

Minehead.