CAN I, through your pages, state how appalled I am at the disgusting treatment Lynne and Brian Simpson have received at the hands of Swindon Council.

I always believed that the council's remit was to serve the electorate and provide them with the best amenities available. Quite clearly through their actions, they are failing both the Simpson family and the public who visit Barbury Castle.

Like your correspondent Mike Mahon (Advertiser, Monday 21) I too wonder if there is more to this than meets the eye.

Before the family took over the tenancy in 1991 there was no cafe at the castle site and Lynne Simpson, with the help of Brian and their eldest daughter, has built up this small business from scratch. Now Swindon Council want to revamp the site and the family quite clearly do not fit in with its plans.

Has the council asked the public if anyone wants Barbury Castle revamped? I, like the majority of users, like it the way it is. Simpsons and all.

P HARRISON

Froxfield