AS chairman of the Melksham branch of the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust I wish to pass on our sincere appreciation to everyone who worked so hard in establishing the recent Spring Festival.

Specifically, we would like to thank Melksham 1st chairman Ian Bertram, community planning co-ordinator Nicki Coyne and events co-organiser Carolyn Beale, all of whom recognise the true potential of the river.

Despite the poor weather, we were pleased to see several hundred people taking the time to wander around the various stalls, displays and attractions. We were particularly pleased to be able to answer the questions of so many visitors to our own stand, regarding the ongoing restoration of the Wilts and Berks Canal and the benefits it could bring to Melksham.

People were clearly interested in what we are trying to achieve and were overwhelmingly positive in their response.

We hope Melksham 1st will consider making the Spring Festival an annual event.

COLIN FLETCHER

Lower Foxhangers Farm

Rowde