IT WAS a delight to come into Tavistock last Friday and Saturday and see the square being properly used at last — enlivened by young Morris dancers and the highly successful farmers' market.

It is hard to see how anyone could object to this. The square was busting with people, despite poor weather, and every stallholder I spoke to said it had been wonderful, some having even had to return home for fresh supplies. There is no doubt that it was a success from both sides.

The town itself seemed busier than usual, and the pannier market — generously supported by the farmers — especially so. So why the extra charge made for stalls and why the rumour that if (if?) it is held again, the farmers' market might not be permitted to use the square?

What possible objection can there by to turning the centre of Tavistock into a lively, attractive venue which will certainly bring in visitors and other trade, and which puts everyone into a good mood?

Does the town council have its own hidden agenda, which has caused it to sulk ever since its election and its ridiculous 'promise' to turn the square back into the ugly and dangerous car park it used to be?

And while we're considering the town council, why can't they let Mrs Rita Moore and her son name their parcel of land 'North Moore Meadow' — a fitting and modest name which will commemorate a family business which has done much to make Tavistock the pleasant place to live that it is today (despite all the town council's efforts)?

Donna Baker

Far Crye, Horndon

I HAVE just returned from shopping in Tavistock and want to express my delight at seeing how successful the first ever farmers' market in Tavistock has been.

The market brought the Bedford Square to life like never before. Colourful stalls, each doing a brisk trade, many selling out very early on.

But, as important, the square was littered with small groups chatting and soaking up the atmosphere of a happy and vibrant community.

Congratulations to WestDEN for their hard work and determination in getting the pilot off the ground and all the traders for making it so successful.

I hope that all the traders, market and existing, feel that the event bought them extra trade, but I am sure that the market research carried out by WestDEN will show whether this is the case.

I would like to register my positive vote for the use of the square in this way again, and again — farmers' markets on a regular basis (weekly would be great!) and all sorts of other events which bring people into the heart of the town and generate a vibrant feel in Tavistock.

There was a real 'bustle' to Tavistock that morning — wouldn't it be fantastic if this could be every morning? I am certain that a street café could be worked into the plans somehow!

Jo Dixon

20 Chollacott Close

Tavistock

CONGRATULATIONS to WestDEN — Saturday's farmers' market on the square was a real success! It was great to see the square being put to such good use.

As a town centre trader I was told by several customers that they had visited Tavistock that day because of the market; there was a definite economic spin-off for the town's shops — just what the town needs!

Let's hope that the farmer's market becomes a regular event.

Lorna Legg

Tavistock Cycles Ltd, Paddons Row

Brook Street, Tavistock