SIR — There are usually at least two sides to every issue and the question of taxi ranks in Minehead is a case in point.

Our local taxis provide a much-needed service and by and large they do it well. Their operators deserve our support.

However, all that is needed is one small rank and a laying-up area from which cabs can be called forward.

Our local traders provide essential services and are under threat on several fronts. They deserve our support. Short term kerbside parking close to shops is vital.

If taxi drivers and Minehead Chamber of Trade co-operated they could, to mutual benefit, set up a "Call a Taxi" service for customers and non-customers who, of course, are potential future customers.

We were promised a "Transport Interchange" as part of the redevelopments around the railway station but the bus stops there have not been improved. With additional services and larger vehicles this is a real problem.

Back on The Parade, taxis blocking bus stops cause congestion and pollution to the annoyance of local residents and to the detriment of our environment.

Our new county councillor lists tourism, small and medium sized businesses, the Taunton rail link and road improvements as her priorities.

Although provision of facilities for public transport includes an element of district responsibility, county is the major influence.

Her predecessor Ian Galloway achieved much during his tenure of office. His quietly effective representation of Minehead was widely appreciated and will be missed.

Solving Minehead's taxi and bus problems would seem to be the ideal way for Cllr Maitland-Walker to show her mettle as his relacement.

J A S Dixon,

Periton Road,

Minehead.