I WAS both surprised and disappointed to read the views of the visitor whose holiday appears to have been blighted by the sight of the Tavistock Cricket Club Pavilion (Letters, July 16).
My surprise stems from the strength of vitriol in his attack, and my disappointment from the fact that his comments do not take account of what this building represents to many.
Although his criticisms were not aimed at the club itself, it was disconcerting to hear it described in such disparaging terms. During the season, Tavistock Cricket Club plays host to many visiting teams. Situated as it is, in an undeniably picturesque location, almost all comment on the beauty of its surroundings. Without this 'carbuncle' many of these visitors would continue to be ignorant of such a perfect spot.
Constructed in 1873 as a cricket pavilion, this function it performs well. Past and present committees of Tavistock Cricket Club have not been incapable of thought or enterprise. Indeed, without these qualities the club would have folded many years ago.
Much time and money has been invested in attempts to improve both the appearance and the facilities of the clubhouse, but the solutions that would make a real difference have always proved too expensive for an organisation entirely funded by the efforts of volunteer fundraisers and charitable donations.
Mr Skinner's comments are based on aesthetics. Is there not more justification to the existence of this building than its outward form? It is a pity that Mr Skinner was not able to call in to the clubhouse. He would certainly have been greeted warmly.
Surely the shortcomings of the fabric of the building itself are outweighed by what is at the heart of the club; the people themselves and the generosity of individuals who choose to celebrate the positive, rather than focus on the negative.
Janet Jarman