SIR - I was horrified to hear of proposals to build houses and industrial units on green areas around Sidmouth.

Although I live in Northampton, 185 miles from Sidmouth, I am a regular visitor to the town. For me, Sidmouth is very special; it is not just another seaside town.

I realise that people need somewhere to live and to work, but where Sidmouth is concerned, it would be so easy to throw the baby out with the bath water.

People like me travel to Sidmouth precisely because it is such a charming, unique town.

If East Devon District Council insists on pressing ahead with their building projects, they may well find that regular visitors like me are put off from visiting Sidmouth in the future.

Richard Cosgrave

96 Greenside, Eastfield, Northampton