I WAS very sorry to hear that Skip Walker has retired as editor.

There have been many improvements in the Standard in the last four-five years, changing from lots of reports on stolen cars and broken windows, to helping to create interest in current affairs and giving headline attention to topics like the 2,500 houses proposed on the Chesterton site and possible alternatives like Kemble airfield.

There has been the best coverage yet given to the recent election, with news, views and pictures of candidates of all parties.

Just think how ignorant we would be about Cotswold District Council decisions and local events if there were no Standard!

Many local papers closed down last year – about 20, I believe – and without these, there would be no outlet for our public opinion and discussion.

So many thanks and best wishes Skip for your work over the years, and may your successor continue to develop and encourage us to keep the Standard going for many more years.

DAVID G P WILLIAMS

Alexander Drive

Cirencester