We would like to say a big thank you through the Review to all the folk who helped to gather opinion for the local land use and shoppers' survey and to those who filled the forms in. These include:

 The Forest Bookshop, Coleford Computers, Coleford Charcoal Grill, Wyedean Healthfoods, Moonstones, Mills Newsagents, The Choice Is Yours green grocer, FC Voyce butchers, Skoops Cards, Celestial Adornment, Sarah's Kitchen, Reckless Designs, Milkwall Corner Stores, the Baptist Church Mothers and Toddlers, Forest of Dean Local Exchange trading scheme, Dr. Charley's lunch club, Gloucestershire College (Five Acres) hair salon and of course to the Review for publishing opinion and events.

All those helping have given their time freely.  The survey is not just for the discussions about the proposed Tesco site in Coleford but also for assistance with other local planning issues.  We continue to gather the survey questionnaires to ensure a robust sample size. They are available from 21 Beauty, Vicky's Cafe, Headlines Salon, Opportunity Box and Wyedean Health Foods.  Please feel free to comment in margins, etc, but try to fill in all questions to assist analysis – we are particularly keen to have contributions from young people.

We appreciate everybody's opinion.  A lot of time and research has gone into what we hope is an unbiased survey which will produce accurate results reflecting the opinions of those who visit, live and work in Coleford.   Please note the July 5 article should have stated that 12 of 175 were in favour of a third supermarket.

Many people considered the application to build Tesco on the Marshes site would be just a nod of the head. Now, however, almost two years later, the concerns of local people, traders and visitors and relevant facts have made this inquiry into a proper, accessible debate. The wider picture is that the imposition of a large development such as this does not benefit the local economy unless seriously considered. Instead, it can starve small businesses and take money out of the area. It is a shame that there still appears to be little urgency about finding other solutions for keeping the Coleford decline in check (17 shops are vacant).

Thanks also to the groups who attended the town council offices on July 9, the fourth day of the Tesco inquiry, which included  LETS, Transition, the Food Hub (Newent and Taurus Crafts) and some other lovely individuals.  And to the recent kind donor of £50 towards costs.  There will be a fifth inquiry day Tuesday September 17 at the district council offices, 10-5.30pm and a show of disability and   local food and service groups that feel affected.

–  Laurie, Diana,  Bob, Roger, Fran,  Caroline and Andrew (a healthy mix of Tesco and non-Tesco shoppers).  Plus welcome new recruits Danny, Jamie and Ian, Coleford.