THURSDAY April 6. Ah! yes, I remember it well. Waking up to glorious sunshine following days of near-freezing temperatures gave the promise of something special to come.

At breakfast I scanned the newspapers, noting there appeared to be several items which might be interesting when there was time to read them properly. Certainly there was no disappointment on that score.

Firstly, it appears that a major step forward has been made toward a new hospital for Okehampton, a site having excellent access and enormous potential for attractive landscaping. Plus number one.

Secondly the war memorial is to remain in its present position, which, being consecrated ground is probably the right decision. Plus number two.

Thirdly, the privately owned Arcade is to be given a 'spruce up' by the people who actually own it, rather than have a river theme foisted upon them. Little public expense. Plus number three.

Fourthly, after a huge amount of work and no small sum of money, the station project will hopefully continue to prosper, albeit under new ownership. Plus number four.

Next Mrs Doughty writes an excellent letter, expressing what clearly most Okehampton people want for Simmons Park.

Its real value cannot be measured and in a few weeks time will be at its spectacular best.

How lucky we are to have this gem, it should be sacrosanct, it is our heritage with a duty to preserve it for those yet to come.

This leads me to what I consider the best news of all, that being the virtual extension of our park through the purchase of adjacent woodland.

No finer way of marking the millennium could be imagined, at little expense and small on-going costs we get this huge plus, giving even more reason (as if that is necessary) to leave our lovely park strictly along.

The whole thing made marvellous reading for Okehampton people — a real spring tonic, simple, sensible, practical ideas, minus funicular railways and totem poles for Fore Street. I loved it!

Yes, Thursday April 6 was indeed a good day. Little wonder I remember it well.

Ted Cann

11 Exeter Road

Okehampton