Sir,
My heart sank when I read the latest developments in the continuing saga regarding the De Valence Trust and the Town Council.
It is particularly bad news for the local population because the De Valence had been offered a grant by Pembrokeshire County Council for complete refurbishment of the building and the Arts Council of Wales was also poised to offer funding, but both bodies were unable to proceed without guaranteed financial support for the De Valence from the Town Council.
Imagine what an asset a beautifully renovated theatre/dance hall/public space would be to Tenby.
Instead, the Trust has been forced into liquidation, the planned programme has ground to a halt and tickets are being refunded for future events.
The town council will take possession of the De Valence for the sum of 1p and thereafter the building will be a drain on public finances as bills mount and the fabric falls into disrepair.
Victoria Smathers, a very experienced theatre director, has worked so hard in her efforts to make the venue succeed.
Her dedication has been boundless and she has also galvanised support from a dedicated band of volunteers.
Under her direction, the De Valence has become a thriving and valued focus of activity in the town.
If the town council really want the De Valence to thrive, they should start urgent negotiations to retain Victoria in post as theatre director, capitalise on her experience, her willing band of volunteers and secure funding to refurbish the building.
The people of Tenby deserve nothing less.
Kathy Duffield,
Maryland,
Saundersfoot.