THE Orwellian use of the word 'heritage' on the proposed new town signs ('New town signs spark outrage' March 22) beggars belief.

Tavistock has been a market town since the grant of a charter by Henry I in 1105. It became a stannary town by the charter of Edward I of 1305. The spurious accolade 'World Heritage Site' was accorded in, I believe, 2006.

If the intention is to mark the heritage of the town on the new signs, and if there is limited space, it is clear which words should be included and which should not.

The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Heritage Project should reconsider before suppressing public awareness of the very thing it is ostensibly dedicated to preserve and promote.

Kevin Ross

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