MADAM, HOW has the council-operated pool, donated to the people of Leominster for their own use, been allowed to reach such an alarmingly dangerous state, that it had to be closed on structural and operational grounds.

As a member of Kingfisher Gala Team for over eight years, I believe I have one of the most accurate views of how devastating the closure will be for the community.

The loss will be significant on a competitive and social basis. The team have been serious competitors in competitions in England and Wales for many years, allowing members to compete against swimmers of similar ability, as well as providing a means of gaining access to a chance to swim for their county.

ANDREW HAYES,

High Orchard,

Pencombe.