HOW ironic that on the front page of last week's Malvern Gazette was the news of the Nag's Head pub being granted extended opening hours, while on page 11 was the sad news of the closing down of the Hawthorn Inn, the village pub of Upper Welland.

The Hawthorn has a history of mixed fortunes. Most of the time it has been the centre of the village's social life and has enjoyed a reputation of serving good food. Over the last few years, however, there has been a distinct decline in custom, due, according to landlord James Stuart, to the lack of support from the 'locals'.

I wonder if he has asked himself what has caused the decline. Has he made any effort to encourage the return of those who have taken their custom elsewhere by, for instance, offering facilities for village events or meetings? The only other building in Upper Welland where it is possible for meetings to be held is the Methodist Chapel, which narrows the scope of activities.

The local pub should be the hub of the community but it is essential for the landlord/licensee to be supportive of village life and activities before he can expect the villagers to support his establishment.

MRS BARBARA LEBBON, Upper Welland Road, Malvern Wells.