I'VE been surprised to read correspondence from those voicing opposition to a new supermarket, while calling for a DIY multiple to come to town.

Aside from a number of builders' merchants, Tavistock has some excellent independent local  businesses selling DIY essentials. Can I draw attention to Novex Fixings in the pannier market, for example, which sells quality goods at up to half of what you'd pay at major chains — and the customer service is second-to-none.

It's great to have town-centre businesses like this and hopefully they have gained new local customers from the loss of Focus.

When it comes to putting food on the table, however, while Tavistock boasts many superb 'destination' retailers, some Plymouth supermarkets must surely be profiting from  budget-mindful shoppers doing their weekly 'essentials' grocery runs outside working hours and seeking wider choice?

C Barnes

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