I often read your newspaper online. I was doing so on July 10 when I found your story entitled ‘Devizes pensioner’s pride and joy canal boat burned.’ I was saddened to read this story as when I was visiting Devizes in 2012 I was invited on board Mr Gordon’s boat. I enjoyed the canal experience immensely.

Whilst on board his boat I took a photo of him wearing his Merchant Navy cap with badge. It was interesting to read how much that cap meant to him as I had no idea of its historical value when taking the picture. I have forwarded an enlarged version of the photo to Mr Gordon, with hopes that it will be a small remembrance of his cap.

My month-long visit to Devizes and much of Wiltshire was initiated to research family roots.

I did not plan to fall in love with your county, but I did.

Lynne Moyer, Chase BC, Canada.