We have lived in Calne for 14 years and throughout that time improvements have been numerous and persistent; a newer, cleaner town has risen from the ashes of Harris.

The lovely river Marden and the new library comple , all good stuff, new housing estates, Sainsbury's and the bypass contribute to the town’s well being, whilst the Heritage Centre with its exhibitions, the gradual canal/park improvements together with the flowers, planting pillars, and other planting ( some thanks to prominent business interests in Calne) all give colour to a very nice town.

It is probably because Calne, like Chippenham, Marlborough and Hungerford, all lie on the favoured A4/M4 corridor that links London to the West of England and Wales. Thus people retiring or going on holiday and heading for the sun find Calne.

The Town Hall, Lansdowne Hotel area, library and head sculpture with the two Indian Bean Trees all nicely laid out in a relaxing way, all with less dog and pigeon mess.

Up to the Square and High Street, Phelps Parade with the new canopy leading to the area around the old church enjoyed by the growing number of market traders and sun seekers. St Mary’s School improvements – so much better than the concrete covered medieval wall in Curzon Street, not forgetting the Community Hub.

There are many other improvements, some with Heritage Grants and new houses on derelict sites – well done to all involved, especially the council. Let’s hope improvements continue despite us losing our elected Calne local councillors and the Socialist Government is out of office.

If we could maintain the floral and maintenance standards including street and dog cleanliness, fill the empty shops, provide another bypass and build on the Heritage Centre, Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum, Motor Cycle Meet, Duck Race, and the Lantern Evening then, during the depressed financial times, we will be able to hold our heads high.

We live in an area of natural beauty which enhances the town particularly when looking at the views and taking the walks which all add up to the joy of living.

Maggie and Sam Seabrook, Curzon Street, Calne.