How sad it will be if carnival processions such as the one at Aylburton are put in jeopardy due to the police feeling constrained by health and safetying issues, in relation to the partial and very temporary closure of the A48 and other main roads.

Whilst only too aware of the need to comply with health and safety legislation, surely we shouldn't be blind to the main intention of the carnival at Aylburton, which is to raise funds for the upkeep and maintenance of the Aylburton memorial  hall, which was built in honour of those from this area who fell fighting for the freedom of this country in two world wars.

Those wars, thankfully were many years ago but surely society should not be allowed or encouraged to forget them. It's ironic to me that Wootton Bassett has rightly just been feted for the efforts of its community for showing respect for the fallen of today's conflicts.

I am sure, even as the pain of losing a son or daughter in one of today's military campaigns eventually eases a fraction, the parents won't want the society of the future to forget them in any way. 

Also, there is currently much discussion and in many parts confusion, about what the Prime Minister means when he refers to the "Big Society." For those of us who have given up their time to be school governors, parish councillors, carnival organisers and voluntary workers etc, there is no confusion whatsoever, so it is even more painful to find that the authorities may take action to make fundraising etc even harder.

We should acknowledge and honour our past and protect our local traditions.

Perhaps this is a great opportunity for our local member of parliament to help keep local traditions alive and redeem himself with his disenchanted electorate. Come on Mark, get involved...say something.

– Mark A Sargent, Florence House, High Street, Aylburton.