THE headline on your Page 1 story last week, 'Axe looms over West Wilts Show', does not truly reflect the article below it and has probably given many people the false impression that this excellent event is about to be cancelled.

West Wiltshire District Council is proud of its involvement with the show and recognises the many benefits if brings to local people, charitable groups and businesses. We have never said that we would withdraw our support, and the next show is in no doubt.

It will go ahead and dates have already been pencilled in for July 28-30 2005.

What we are doing is carefully reviewing all of our financial commitments, as any prudent council should. We provide £12,000 in cash over two years for the event. In addition, staff costs in planning and managing the show amount to £85,000.

We are also looking at other elements of the show, such as its format, location and staffing, to ensure that it is being managed in the best possible way.

There is no suggestion of us wielding an axe as a new administration, we are examining all of our priorities and making sure that we spend council tax payers' money wisely.

CLLR GRAHAM PAYNE

Deputy Leader, West Wiltshire District Council

Cllr Payne confirms that the show is under scrutiny for financial reasons, therefore its future cannot be totally secure. Editor