WITH reference to your article about the sign for the Hopscotch Pre-school in Priest Lane, Pershore, I feel strongly that it should be allowed to remain as it is.

Pre-school is a vital service in the community largely dependent on voluntary help and it would be very hard for Hopscotch to be subjected to loss of previous outlay should the sign have to be removed. The present sign on a wall is inoffensive, out of the way and informs the public that here is to be found something which is necessary and desirable. Here young children are equipped and educated in their formative years. Pre-schooling is advocated by the government and vitally important and this service is one of many activities of which Pershore can be proud.

Why would a free-standing sign (on a couple of poles) be any better? Rather, it could well be a hazard at a place busy with small children and cars.

The planning authority should consider this. If someone is offended by the sign on a wall, will they not be equally offended by a free-standing sign? How could it set a precedent (as alleged) for other small businesses in the town to set up similar signs. The pre-school is not a business, but a registered charity, unable to operate at a profit, forbidden to do so under laws governing charities. As St Wulstan's Hall is used by many organisations, this sign is an important way to publicise to parents with young children, that this particular activity is operating here. Does the planning authority wish to close the pre-school by placing such difficulties in their way.

MRS JACQUELINE HUGHES, Fairways, Pershore.