Sir,
We live in Herefordshire and visit Tenby about twice a month on average. Last June we thoroughly enjoyed the Café Culture weekend. Having a Sunday lunch outside in the sunshine was fantastic. Strolling down the street and purchasing local cheese and other products, while listening to some very good music and enjoying the carnival-like atmosphere was truly superb.
We eagerly awaited this year's event. It was a little disappointing to find that it was raining on the Sunday morning, but we weren't down hearted - this is Britain after all! At around noon we ventured into the main street to browse the stalls and enjoy the entertainment.
What do we find? The local restaurants have the tables at the ready, there is even a cookery demonstration, but no stalls, and for music... two buskers! It didn't take us long to discover that instead of fresh local produce we could purchase a selection of Taiwanese watches! Perhaps this is some new definition of 'culture' that I have previously been unaware of?
After the truly appalling 'Fun in the Sun' TV programme last winter, which just seemed to show the worst elements of 'Henby', this really was an opportunity to show that Tenby has a more cultured and refined side too. For those of us who visit Pembrokeshire because we love the beautiful scenery and diverse nature of local culture, this year's event had plenty of 'café', but was rather lacking in the 'culture' department.
Why was it possible in 2001 to have fairly professional sounding musical performances, but only 'buskers' in 2002? Admittedly the lack of sunshine had an effect on the day, but the lack of stalls and entertainment throughout the day really made Café Culture 2002 a non-event.
I really hope that if the event is to be repeated in 2003 that some lessons are learned from this year and that the spirit of 2001 returns.
Jonathan Knibbs,
The Cedars,
Whitchurch,
Ross-on-Wye,
Herefordshire.