How sad it was to find Blenheim Gardens virtually deserted last Saturday when it was a beautiful sunny summer day.

Apart from myself and my sandwiches, there was only other young family and a single person enjoying themselves there.

The town was very busy with the biking event, the walkway was practically opposite the entrance to the gardens and yet the number of people coming into the park was zero.

Not so long ago the gardens were full of children and their families enjoying the fresh air and freedom to play and run. Mums could have a cup of tea, make friends, have a chat with old friends and get some much needed sun. Not any more.

I walk through Blenheim Gardens nearly every day and have noticed a big increase in the number of people with dogs and alcohol. The language and attitude of some of these groups is intimidating. This is giving the wrong impression of Minehead’s “jewel in the crown”.

The café should never have been closed as the people who ran it were a watchful eye on what was going on.

Unfortunately those who need to hide away are doing so in Blenheim Gardens. Someone please take responsibility for sorting this out.

Glenys Harrison-Poole, Blenheim Road, Minehead.