Cllr June Green, of Hermosa Road, Teignmouth, writes:

Like the majority of people in our town I was shocked last week to hear the dreadful news of a very serious incident at Kingsway. And greatly saddened on the effect that this might have on the people who live there.

It was only a matter of weeks ago that the Kingsway Meadow Centre was re-opened, after months of closure, when it was taken over by Westbank Healthy Living. The opening was celebrated by a very successful Christmas party for more than 60 residents of all ages. I helped out on the night and saw at first hand the hard work put in by Sarah, Alex, Sue and Karen assisted by a 'dash' of councillors. Great organisation, camaraderie and straight talking.

I also saw that there is a real sense of community in this area of Teignmouth. It is one of the most deprived areas in Devon – but not when it comes to having a good heart.

People have lived there all their lives and would not live anywhere else. Some had moved away for a while but chose to return to the estate. Neighbours looking out for neighbours. This is not to deny that a great number of problems exist on the estate, some brought in from elsewhere, but that there is a great will to overcome them.

On the morning, following the incident I called in at Kingsway and spoke to a number of people about how they might have been affected by this and what, if any, help they might need. Much sadness was expressed for the family and their loss.

There was great concern about being able to feel safe in their homes. Some were reassured by the permanent police presence on site. The need for the community centre was stressed as being vital – a central gathering point for the whole community.

The re-opening of the Kingsway Meadow Centre is fantastic, but it does now need to have more funding made available in order to meet the needs of all of those who live in the vicinity – all ages and abilities.

This is a community that can succeed but could do with some assistance. With the regeneration of Broadmeadow and the prospect of new jobs, which it is hoped will be filled with local people, this should go a long way in providing the opportunity to make Kingsway one of the best places in the town to live.

And after all – they do already have the views!THIS AND OTHER LETTERS IN OUR ONLINE EDITION