WHILE I commend all attempts to keep Tavistock tidy (especially the thoughtful disposal of cigarette butts and chewing gum which gets carried into shops on peoples shoes), I am worried for some of Tavistock's rare 'weeds'.

The Tavistock Hieracium grows in walls and waste place. The rare prickly lettuce grows in Old Exeter Road, and the even rarer Wall lettuce can be found in Watts Road. Any attempt to weed-kill should only be done by someone with a good knowledge of the local flora.

I would be prepared to organise a guided walk for anyone interested in Tavistock's unique flora.

Roger Hutchins

Old Exeter Road

Tavistock