THE state of the Royal Oak, regardless of whether or not it is deemed as being a safe structure, must create a poor impression for people visiting Leominster (Footpath closed as hotel crumbles, August 8).

The fact that this building is on a junction and the footpath once used by many pedestrians as part of a route to school or the railway station is far from satisfactory.

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This dilapidated building was once a pleasant and impressive place to be in. The bowling alley at the rear was used as a venue for Flicks in the Sticks.

We have many fond memories of the Royal Oak, as when we celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary many of our family stayed there, including ourselves.

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Leominster now has no hotel and nowhere for a large number of people to stay, apart from the amazing youth hostel, which we used when we celebrated our 60th birthday.

I am sure that reinstating the Royal Oak as a place to stay could be beneficial for the local economy as it could encourage visitors to stay in Leominster and have the opportunity to appreciate our many independent shops and local places of interest.

The longer this building is left the worse the deterioration.

KAY WEST

Leominster