IN June it was again my pleasure to visit Tavistock, my favourite little town in England. This time, along with my wife, we brought our son, daughter-in-law and our two grandchildren to enjoy it.  They wandered around the town, visited the market and later rode horses and hiked on Dartmoor.  

They were enthralled by the the small town atmosphere and the friendliness of all the people they met. I had told them what to expect but I think they were still a little surprised by its cosiness.  

While visiting, I, on the other hand, was dismayed by the sight of the erstwhile old people's tea room in such an unkempt state. What used to be a vibrant little corner, a meeting place for old and new friends, is now a sad greyish spot, inviting vandalism and squatters.  

A number of years ago, when it was transferred to some other owner I wrote that it was a travesty. I had understood that it really belonged to the people of Tavistock in perpetuity and thus could not be sold.  

This sad and shabby little building  in the heart of Tavistock does nothing to enhance your lovely little market town, surely something can be done to get it back into use?

I realise I am an outsider but on my last but one visit, I was so taken by the uniqueness of the concept that I remarked that it was something I would like to see in the US. I am sure if enough concerned citizens of Tavistock did a little foot work there would be a good chance of getting that tea room humming again.

George J Moore

3675 Emerald Lane

Mulberry

Fl 33860