Britchcombe Farm

In issue 299 we published a walk titled ‘Dragons & White Horses’ stating the route should start from Britchcombe Farm Campsite and that toilets at the farm could be used. We’ve since been informed that the campsite and toilets are for the use of guests only. The walk should start on the main road opposite the farm.

As a nation of animal lovers it does seem very unfair that there is a ‘no pets’ rule in a lot of rented accommodation and retirement homes, when so many kind people could give a good home to an animal. They often provide the only company to a person on their own and they open the possibility of socialising with other animal lovers.

Colin Griffiths, Northants

As a landlord and pet lover I respect the right of my tenants to own and care for a pet. I have also lived in rented accommodation and my landlord allowed me this privilege. In return I made sure that the pet was wellbehaved and did not damage

anything in the house. A win-win situation! Jennifer Pankhurst, Whitchurch

The idea of an old lady with a purring cat on her lap, or a gentleman taking his companion for a walk is an attractive one, but unfortunately it is not the whole story. My sister was the letting and upkeep supervisor for some flats where animals were allowed. After paying out hundreds of pounds to replace urine-soaked carpets, shredded furnishings and even chewed woodwork, a ‘no pets’ rule was brought in. Not all pet owners are responsible carers.

Lynne Harris, by email