THE recent debate concerning Stourport's future seems to have revived the old tensions between residents and the tourist trade.

As both a resident and a member of that trade, I feel it is vital that we develop a working partnership between the two, as towns like Stratford have done with great success.

The shops, cafes and supermarkets in the town rely on visitors to boost their income.

We need their spending power if we are to halt the decline of our town.

Boarded-up shops lead to an air of decay and dereliction which devalues the homes we live in.

Tourism brings wealth and jobs to the local economy yet the council talks of attracting a new commercial enterprise.

Sitting on a park bench by the riverside, watching everything come to life for the new season, I am struck by the fact that nature has not let us down.

The quiet unassuming dignity of Stourport which I knew as a child is still there, waiting to enchant and rejuvenate us afresh.

Let us harness this natural asset and work to take Stourport finally into the new millennium.

SUE MAY

Areley Common

Stourport