Bill Ludford, of Kings Court, Kingsbridge, writes:

On reading your front page article, Gazette, March 3, about the proposed developments at Bantham, one questions how Thurlestone Parish council

and the Thurlestone Parish Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group came to be involved in this issue. Was there an approach by Mr Johnston to these groups?

It does not explain how the fact that “Mr Johnston would share his plans” was initiated. Did the aforementioned groups approach Mr Johnston? There seems some ‘muddy water’ around who is disclaiming responsibility.

All this hassle could have been avoided if, when the Evans estate was on the market, the National Trust had stepped in and offered to buy it. My ­recollection is that the National Trust considered this option in a half-hearted way and the chance was lost.

A positive fundraising effort by the trust would surely have raised a significant amount from members and visitors to the Bantham area, both at home and abroad, as there must be many families who have fond memories and deep affection for this exceptional piece of our coastline and surrounding area.

Is it now too late to make an offer to Mr Johnston so that the Bantham area can be safeguarded for posterity?