Sean Brogan, of Coombe Vale Road, Teignmouth, writes:

Lindsey Sill's article Shaldon holds the whip hand (Advertiser/Post June 19) referring to the proposed privatisation of the Shaldon to Teignmouth ferry service illustrates graphically the malaise which has entered our society.

This is a service which is part of the South West Way, serves a commuter purpose and is part of Teignbridge's tourist structure and yet Cllr Connett proposes to sell it off to follow some dogmatic premise.

This service is used by both communities and is part of what we are, not just something to be plundered at will for building the 'capital base' of Teignbridge. There is no guarantee of the continuation of the ferry if such a privatisation collapses.

Shaldon Parish Council is to be congratulated at being awake to object to Cllr Connett's grab at the community's assets and many of us on this side of the water would have wished that Teignmouth Town Council would have shown the same resolution to such blatant asset stripping.

To this end there is a petition available opposing the proposed move available in Fairweather News in Northumberland Place,Teignmouth. Blank copies for use elsewhere will be available from the address given on the petition.