I WAS not surprised to learn that the disparaging remarks made about Lydney published in the Review (January 11) were penned by an ex-pat. rehoused in Ontario, Canada, sometime after WW2.

When I googled 'Hamilton' in the travel guide a not very favourable description emerged of "a place to drive straight through on the way to the Niagara Falls, with a wiff of sulphur in the air from the iron and steel works. and there are many cheap motels." 

Where I wondered was the local flora and fauna, the inherited history or the redefined character and natural heritage of the local society?  Presumably they have evolved from a more complex mix of various creeds colours and race who rely on a mainly materialistic society.

Yet, there is still some life left in Lydney! 

Despite a few years of  recession and decline it has everything still to play for – a beautiful parkland and historic house, a unique and pioneering steam railway and a very talented town band to be proud of – in fact their summer concerts which tour the area are an occasion not to be missed.

– Janet M.Baily, Ross-on-Wye.