Following the front page report last week about the red flags flying on Minehead seafront at all times, I am writing to say how much I agree with the views of Cllr. Terry Venner and Graham Sizer of Minehead BID. 

The fact that the red warning flags have not been flying when they should is bad enough, particularly as there have been a number of times when our lifeboat crew has been called out to rescue people as a result.

Even worse is the suggestion that now the flags should fly all the time and beach users will have to decide for themselves whether it is safe to enter the water.   

The main concern here is one of safety for users of the beach.

A lesser concern is that visitors entering the town from Seaward Way on to the promenade will see the flags flying, assume they can’t go in the water and promptly drive elsewhere.

Minehead depends on tourism for the livelihood of many of its residents and a measure which could well result in deterring visitors from coming is one we could well do without.

Cllr Sandra Slade, Mayor of Minehead.