THE umbrella organisation being set up by Ian Handford and Tony Moss to alert the people of Torbay to any potentially contentious issues concerning covenants, town planning, development, protection of greenfield sites etc should be backed by everyone in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham who really care about where they live (Parker's Pen, March 8).

The concept, as I see it, is not about opposing regeneration per se, but it is to ensure that we safeguard the existing wonderfully unique blend of maritime and rural scenery and views while accommodating some hugely attractive urban features at the same time, thus conserving the best of our towns for future generations of residents and visitors alike.

In the same Parker's Pen we were introduced to Jim Parker's latest grandchild, Riley, who looks a bonny little chap. How nice it would be for our doting grandfather to take his grandson for a walk on, say, Babbacombe Downs, in a few years time to take in the fresh air, sunshine and stunning vistas and just maybe quietly reflect to himself that perhaps, after all, it was fortunate that there were enough local people with the backbone to take on misguided politicians and vested interests so that he and Riley could still enjoy such pleasant surroundings.

JACK CRITCHLOW

Sherwell Hill, Torquay