I REFER to the letter on Monday regarding Old Town Festival Entertainment.

The letter was not from the Entertainment Sub-Committee, it was from one member of the sub-committee who had responsibility for the dance stage performances between noon and 3pm on Sunday, July 7 in the Town Gardens, and who did a remarkable job co-ordinating many diverse groups of dancers during the three hours allotted.

It was unfortunate that the dance events over-ran by about 20 minutes through no fault of his, and resulted in a Swindon Services representative asking for the event to be stopped.

This was not a decision by the festival organisers, who nevertheless have apologised for the disappointment of the dancers (and their parents) who could not finish their routine.

It is unfortunate that such a minor, though annoying incident should have received adverse publicity. This should not overshadow a very successful festival, in which dozens of events went without a hitch and were enjoyed by thousands each day.

May I also point out that we are indebted to Swindon Services staff, who were more than helpful during the whole week of the festival, and indeed the festival would be difficult if not impossible to run without their excellent co-operation.

We thank all those who helped make this year's festival such a memorable one.

TERRY KING

Bankside

Okus

Swindon