I WAS appalled by Peter Gibson’s comment concerning Westonbirt Arboretum and, in particular, the comment concerning the Enchanted Christmas event.

As a long-standing Friend of the Arboretum I applaud any effort to bring the delights of the Arboretum to the general public.

The Enchanted Christmas has been running for several years now and has delighted many families and youngsters who see the beautiful trees in an imaginative light.

Children are the future of the Arboretum and should be encouraged in every way.

One would never equate the artistic ways in which the trees are lit to Blackpool illuminations.

Robert Holford was a great plantsman with tremendous foresight.

After all, he planted a wide range of magnificent trees knowing he would never see them as we do now.

I’m sure he would applaud any effort to ensure his legacy remains available to the public.

Half a million visitors enjoyed this special place last year as well as many school children introduced to the wonder of trees.

Maintaining this heritage for the future depends on visitors and the work done by the Forestry Commission and the Friends to ensure Robert Holford’s legacy remains available for everyone can only be applauded and not denigrated.

MARGARET HEADEN

Bussage