Dear Editor

Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the Nub News article Villagers split in unholy row and offer an alternative view.

I was among those at the meeting, but like many said little and was more interested in hearing differing views. In my opinion the majority of people in the village are for the proposal and Annette explained what benefits using the church could bring while warning what could happen to it if its not used.

Some have taken this as scaremongering, I believe it was just being pragmatic, especially as so few villagers use the church. I'm sure Mr Abbott's emotional attachment, along with a few others, to St Mary's is genuine, it would be good see him and others more often using the church.

What was not mentioned in the article was Mr Abbott's interest in the location in terms of him offering land, but with a caveat he can build houses next to any shop/cafe. He has been open about this but could offer a reason he is so against using the church.

You mention the pews and font, but my understanding is the font would not be completely removed, just moved to the part of the church.

It is sad that a relatively friendly community has been divided by this issue and I hope a way can be found to move forward and in time we can have such a facility to go with the farm shops and two pubs we have in our lovely village.

Finally, while I was glad to read Annette's comments I was very disappointed that Andy Airey did not take the opportunity to put forward the Community Shop's position, a poor showing in my opinion and a clear lack of leadership. If he is only interested to looking good with the title of chair and taking the glory but not prepared to deal with the more challenging aspects, perhaps he should consider his position.

Yours sincerely

Billy No Mates PS; Given the strength of feeling and animosity shown by people on both sides of the divide, I'm grateful you have agreed to allow me to write this anonymously after verifying my identity. *Send us your views. Contact the editor: [email protected]