SIR — The letter from three Minehead town councillors defended the council well (Free Press December 12). They mentioned that there needs around £300,000 to be spent on the fabric of the town hall. Here's a daft idea from a pensioner - what about putting that money into helping the Minehead Development Trust's bid to buy our old hospital? If this came about, the council office could move in and have the big front room as a council chamber, as well as letting it out for functions and gatherings. I see at least three plus results - income from lettings, easy access for the public (including disabled like me) who might like to attend council meetings, and closeness to other things happening under the same roof, making the council seem more accessible. The Minehead Development Trust would, I feel sure, welcome council support of this kind - the trust members have been working hard to turn into reality the vision of acquiring this centrally-located lovely building for the town as a community hub. I have seen two sets of architects' plans; like many others, I have pledged money on a Love Your Town leaflet, to be honoured if they get the go-ahead, and to prove to possible funders that there is community support. I really believe this would be the best use of the building. What do other people think? No-one can foretell the future; we can only do our best where we are. This applies whether the site is developed for dwellings or becomes the community asset, pulling in visitors, that it could be. "Where there is no vision, the people perish" (Francis Bacon). Philippa Gerry, Marley Close, Minehead.