Chippenham Town Council has given notice to the town's gardens and allotments society that rents must increase by £5 a plot a year from September 2003.

Last year the council increased the rent by £5, or 66 per cent per plot. The proposed increase for next year represents a 40 per cent rise in rent. There is no right of appeal against this increase.

These relatively enormous rent increases do not conform to the spirit for which allotments were established.

Traditionally, gardeners are, by nature, peaceful and solitary, not much interested in anything beyond their own plot. This translates into an unwillingness to face up to harsh realities and organise politically to defeat minor bureaucrats and councillors until it is too late.

Working an allotment gives the holder plenty of fresh air and healthy exercise and it is suitable for elderly and disabled people as well as the fighting fit. It is good for peace of mind as well as the body.

The Chippenham Gardens and Allotment Society is a thriving concern spread over six sites.

The current rent charges are considered reasonable. An increase in rents is unjustified and small minded and is aimed at tenants that it knows will not buck the rise and who have no right of appeal in any event.

Chippenham Town Council should consider seriously any proposed rent increase in the order of 40 per cent. While it is appreciated that price increases are an inevitable consequence of the times in which we live, an increase in line with inflation would be more appropriate. A 40 per cent increase without the right of appeal is iniquitous.

SC Fuller, OBE, BEM

Queens Crescent

Chippenham