I left Stratford-upon-Avon nearly five years ago for a new job in the West Country.

I had lived in the same house near the town centre for 18 years and over the years had become increasingly upset and disillusioned at the increasing emphasis on Stratford as a tourists-only venue . . . and the loss of identity as my 'home' town.

In recent times I have made return visits and I have been ever-glad to leave again.

Now another nail has been put in the coffin, with the plan to site a cafe on the Greenway near Clifford Chambers.

When the Greenway was first opened up as a gentle path on the old trackbed, the county council limited itself to installing information panels - and though I still haven't forgiven the council for its ignorance in the mis-spelling of Seven Meadows (the writer seemed to mistakenly think our river was the Severn!), its restraint with these displays was laudable.

Anyone with imagination could use the information to conjure up images of bygone days, while enjoying the lovely countryside.

Now, however, it seems that yet another block is to be put on people's imaginations; yet again locals are losing some virtually unspoilt heritage; yet again people are being 'organised'.

The net result is that locals will lose faith with their surroundings and theme-park seeking tourists will take over even more of the local amenities.

My last visit to Stratford just a few months ago was deeply marred when I thought I'd pop up to the Greenway for a quiet wander on a very hot day, seeking out grasshoppers and the relative peace of the out-of-town riverbank.

It was not to be, however. I saw the sign 'overspill car park' and that was it for me. We have experienced the results of overspill car parking by the Recreation Ground. When will it ever stop?

Is there something wrong in residents and more understanding visitors wanting to keep some gems just the way they are?

Mary-Ann Bloomfield, Devon