REFERENCE the headline 'Praise for town that refuses to give up' (February 2):

It seemed good that a senior politician bothered to come to our lovely town, and, while it highlighted some of the problems we face there was no mention of what I believe is the most important factor for the people that are out of work, ie, no job centre.

With so many people in the area on benefits (pensioners, disabled as well as unemployed) surely a benefits office in the town is vital.

The bus service in town is better than it was but still not good and the price of fuel means it is very expensive to travel to Exeter. I know that some people can sign on in the Ockment Centre but not everyone is allowed that privaledge. Mel Stride MP should be working towards getting our job centre back asap.

Karen Hendry

Okehampton