I AM horrified to read in your newspaper that the London House shop in Barnards Green is to become a betting shop.

My grandfather, J George Smith, bought this shop and the house above it in around 1904 and set it up as a highly respected and much frequented gents' outfitters. My mother lived there with her many brothers and sisters and she also worked in the shop.

When my grandfather died, the business passed into the hands of my uncle, Stan Smith, and the shop continued with its very high standard for many years.

When my uncle died, the shop and house were sold and became a ladies outfitters - again selling high quality goods.

I understand Needwood Racing will soon be moving in. In the meantime, the shop looks tatty and cheap, as a temporary discount store.

I know that times have to change but my poor grandparents, who were staunch Baptists and totally opposed to all forms of gambling, would turn in their graves if they knew what was happening.

ROSEMARY WILLIAMS (nee Green), Guarlford.