WITH reference to the decision of West Devon's environmental health committee to stop funding toilets in seven villages:

I spoke strongly against the proposal, and as ward member especially regarding the South Zeal toilets. I was strongly supported by the two neighbouring ward members, Cllr Nick Morgan, North Tawton, and Paul Ridgers, Drewsteignton.

These toilets are essential to South Zeal. They are adjoining a car park and the recreation ground. The Dartmoor Folk Festival, the second largest in Devon of its kind, is held here. The Football Club have games here for nine months of the year. There is a public tennis court and many parish events are held here.

South Zeal School use the facilities on a regular basis when using the recreation ground.

South Zeal is in the Dartmoor National Park and has many visitors.

No way can I support closure. Unfortunately the resolution to stop funding the seven toilets was carried. An amendment to reconsider Buckland Monachorum and South Zeal because of the present use was narrowly defeated by the chairman's casting vote.

Negotiations will now take place between the officers and South Tawton parish council with a view to the parish council taking on the responsibility.

I will fight strongly to keep the toilets open.

Cllr John Darch

Ward member for South Tawton