I WOULD like to thank the people of Tetbury: those who came, and those who wanted to come to the town’s meeting to discuss the morale of the town. 

The fact the hall was full, the fact that so many people wanted to come, the fact that so many people wrote in proved that our morale is alive and well and living in Tetbury. 

What this proved was our townsfolk do have morale, and concerns, but want more, and want better, for our town for our families.

Yes, there were logistical problems, no PA system (so lots of people could not hear the discussions), time – many felt there was not enough time to discuss fully and for the people to bring their ideas forward on certain matters – and I’m sure there are other concerns. 

But as a first step it was good.

During and, best of all, after this meeting people were discussing their ideas; this was indeed a reminder of the Golden Age when people would talk more. 

In fact, even now on social media, street corners, clubs, pubs and restaurants people are still talking.

Now all we have to do is get the right people to listen and act on what people want. 

There are a good number of things that were not discussed – affordable homes and care provision for the elderly, the future of the Malt House, education and schooling, leisure and sports facilities, what plans/provisions for the future infrastructure when the extra houses are built, the future of employment for the town, the town centre and of course parking – and I’m sure many people have their own concerns to bring forward. 

I sincerely hope that people will now continue to come forward and have their say; I hope more meetings like this are convened, but whatever your views please come to future meetings, please write to the council, please write to this newspaper and get our leaders to act on our behalf. 

As JFK said: 'leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.’

This meeting made me proud and reminded us all of how good the people of our town are.

We might not agree on things but then discussion is better than apathy, and we all have the right to speak freely.

Thank you and well done everyone: ‘things just don’t happen, they are made to happen.’ 

KEVIN PAINTER
Tetbury