PLEASE do not let Tesco come to Okehampton! They promise jobs, but can't everybody see that many of those with jobs at the existing three supermarkets will then lose their jobs?

Look at how Martin's the butchers have cleverly moved to a prime location which has apparently increased  their takings! How fantastic that people are supporting a local producer, and keeping business in the town centre where it should be.

We are more than adequately provided for as it is and we must support local food initiatives such as Hallwood greengrocers and Martin's in the interests of sustainability and cutting down food miles, and not invite more competition to the outskirts of town.

I was unable to get to the consultation events, so I urge anybody who agrees with me to write to the chamber of trade, the mayor, everybody! 

Sarah Bell

South Zeal

THERE are currently some 450 local campaigns throughout the UK fighting campaigns to stop Tesco (or one of the other 'Big 4') opening stores in their towns.

Now surely, if Tesco were such benefactors, bringing much-needed jobs, cheap food, clothing etc, then these towns would welcome their new Tesco stores with open arms? The harsh reality is that, without exception, Tesco are most certainly not good news for any town such as ours.  

There are so many arguments against them I scarcely know where to start, and due to lack of space, can only say a new Tesco store in Okehampton will be the kiss of death for our town centre.

Anyone that genuinely believes a Tesco store will benefit Okehampton should check out and spend a few hours informing themselves just how this store operates.  If you're not on-line then buy a copy of the book 'Tescopoly' by Andrew Simms.  Enlightening to say the least.

Deb Travers

Fairplace Terrace

Okehampton

UNLIKE most of your correspondents I don't have a firm view on the Tesco debate. Until a plan for dealing with the major issues facing Okehampton has been agreed there is no sure way of knowing how an out of town store would contribute.

Where is the integrated plan for Okehampton showing improved traffic flow, rail links, a vision of how the new housing will impact the town and some imaginative reinvention of our town centre? An out of town store may well play a part in all this, but until we have a clear idea of how we want our town to develop it is a huge distraction.

More people and more services in the town are inevitable, but at present we are being pushed into makeshift decisions by smart, large, fast-moving organisations. We should be inviting the likes of Tesco into our town when we are clear in our minds about the benefits for both parties.

It is almost too late, but I implore everyone to respond the council with your ideas about how our community should develop. The whole picture, not just Tesco.

West Devon, town council, chamber of commerce, people of Okehampton, hurry up! Recession and the conglomerates are coming to get us.

Nigel Hughes

Vicarage Road

Okehampton