IT WAS a pleasure to see former mayor Robin Fenner (Letters, November 16) returning to the political — with a small 'p' — arena after a long absence, particularly as it was he who persuaded me to stand for office on the town council in the first instance.

He may now regret this because I wish to take issue with him vis-a-vis his letter regarding the possible re-siting of our war memorial.

He and I agree that the present situation of the cross, surrounded as it is by motor cars, does not do justice to the memory of those Tavistokians who sacrificed their lives for us in two world wars, and others who have died in more recent conflicts.

However, I cannot countenance his idea of a memorial in the middle of Bedford Square.

This suggestion, I suspect, was made tongue-in-cheek, because he is on record as being against Goose Fair and his proposal would effectively prevent the square being used for this or any other large community events.

I would, instead, ask the people of Tavistock to consider why we should not put the memorial in the churchyard.

Situated on the corner of the green and with a few steps constructed from pavement level, it would be perfectly easy for all those who wished to lay wreaths to do so. Moreover, everyone who passed by whether on foot or in a vehicle would be able to see it.

The service itself would be held on the square rather than in a car park and the people of Tavistock who, I was delighted to see, came in large numbers to our most recent service, would not have to place themselves precariously on adjacent pavements.

The issue of religion does not apply, because under the present cross are recorded the names of those of diverse religions, or no religions at all, but who died for the common good.

I know that the concept of change is difficult, but I would ask would not such a move give much more credence to those who are remembered there?

Ken Sanders

118 Whitchurch Road

Tavistock