Sir,

As a frequent visitor to Tenby and an ex-resident, I was disgusted to see the backlash to the town's traffic improvements by 'so called' traders of the town on my recent visit. I have always enjoyed my previous visits to Tenby and have found parking in the North Beach car park and strolling along the Croft on the way to the shops to be a pleasant experience.

Upon reaching the town, however, I have always had to pay more attention to the traffic than to the shops, so I was pleasantly surprised (even on a very wet day) to find my walk through the centre to be a pleasant and incident free. Although there were no seats out due to the rain, the atmosphere was very welcoming and 'customer friendly'.

The freedom and space now available has greatly improved the shopping experience and can only encourage new visitors to Tenby, improving the town's trade.

I was then appalled to see the 'Twinned with Chaos' signs in various shop and bar windows. These were all places I have visited previously and have thought them to be forward-thinking establishments. Needless to say I held on to my money and did not cross their doorsteps. These businesses obviously have such a huge local trade that they do not need 'outsiders' money'.

These narrow minded few are damaging the town's reputation and prospects in both long and short term. I have racked my brains and have failed to see how these shops are suffering from the easier access, pleasant atmosphere and customer friendly outlook. These shops are sending a very negative image of Tenby and its people. The 'we don't like customers' image is being broadcast nationwide by the noisy few, so it should come as no shock to these traders if customers do stop visiting.

Thankfully, I know a different Tenby, a warm welcoming customer friendly and forward-thinking place, so the 'not welcome' message has not sunk in despite the petty minded minority.

May I applaud those traders who have the vision and intelligence to support the improvements and suggest they continue with their excellent customer focussed outlook.

The wider view taken by the silent majority will prove to be the best way forward for Tenby. I beg these businesses to stick to their guns and not be downtrodden by the negative messages.

For those who are opposed to change I can only suggest they channel as much energy into making the most of the opportunities afforded them, as they do putting down the improvements and I am sure they will reap the benefits.

Lee Griffiths,

Barley Cross,

Weston-Super-Mare.