I READ with interest proposals to maintain the statue of Sir Francis Drake that stands at the entrance to the town. It is a fine monument in a prominent location and represents a man that Tavistock should honour. It should be treated with greater respect. Some years ago Sir Francis was given a coat of brown paint. This has inevitably faded to give him the appearance of a mouldy chocolate soldier. The painting was a tragic mistake and I cannot begin to comprehend the thinking behind it. I would like to see the paint removed and the original patina restored. The statue of the Duke of Bedford which had similar treatment also needs paint stripping. Sadly this will cost and the castings will take years to return to their previous glory but the sooner it is done the sooner the community can take pride once again in these important monuments. Robert Mountjoy Morley Drive Crapstone
