FOR the first time in 35 years I attended Goose Fair and it lasted approximately 20 minutes. It was not a pleasant experience. I can still remember all those years ago what a wonderful day it was ?many local people directly involved in the fair and the stalls and it certainly put Tavistock on the map because Goose Fair then belonged to Tavistock. Unfortunately, in my opinion and many others agree, sadly, this is not the case any more. It has become cheap and grubby and lacks any form of character whatsoever. The constant overbearing smell of burgers and tomato sauce lingers on days after it is all over. Now this part I consider to be important - how many businesses have absolutely no choice but to close for the whole day? For many this can be very costly. Also, the main car park is closed for the complete week. Obviously, with no major car park many people abstain from coming into Tavistock for a whole week. What of the people who have paid for a year?s permit for that particular car park? Do they receive a rebate? Do the businesses who are forced to close receive any compensation? Do the town council and West Devon Borough Council write letters apologising for the inconvenience? No. Then we have the opportunists that come out to Tavistock for the day unfortunately not to buy anything but to use their inbred skills dishonestly. Perhaps the town council and West Devon Borough Council should revert back to what many people would like to see, a local involvement, ie, farmers, small businesses and schools etc. There is a vast amount of talent in and around this town, let us use it and bring back the real Goose Fair that many of us remember. I conclude, Goose Fair belongs to Tavistock and no-one else. P S Burnside Owl Barn Lower Whiddon, Beaworthy
