I was delighted to see that Bridport is one of ten finalists in the BBC Countryfile Market Town competition. It is indicative that the town exhibits all the qualities that are today so rare in our towns – a wonderful range of independent retailers, a thriving market, hardly an empty shop, first class public facilities, more than adequate parking and all set in wonderful surrounding countryside.

In short, Bridport is a gem.

Why potentially spoil it for a ‘ha’porth of tar’ by introducing on-street parking and its associated abominable parking meters.

I have no doubt those offering the government remedial advice on town centre regeneration such as Mary Portas and Bill Grimsey would reject the proposal out of hand.

My advice is for the council to ‘quit whilst it’s ahead’.

John Dean Colly Farm, Dottery