Cornish Guardian Letters, 5th February, 2004

Generations of locals have used this beach

I am not entering into the controversy with regard to the proposed development at Carlyon Bay but as a local person I am extremely concerned about the closing of footpaths leading to and from the area.

To the east of Carlyon Bay fishing point (Fishing Rock) extends into the sea.

This is where, along with many hundreds of local families, I was taught to swim. We have walked there, picnicked there and brought our own children there. My father has used this beach for more than 80 years, still swimming off the sand in 2003.

I am now told by security guards that I must leave the beach: that I am 1) trespassing and 2) contravening health and safety.

This is not part of the development - there are no falling rocks, unstable cliff face or paths - and it is totally isolated from Shorthorn and Polgaver where the proposed building will take place.

Along with my dog I was on the foreshore. I was always led to believe that the foreshore belonged to the Duchy and therefore could not be private. Can all the local people really be prevented access to this beautiful area?

We need to bring this to the attention of the community who may think that the controversy is confined to Carlyon Bay.

So many previous owners have tried to ban locals from this beach and have failed. So Ampersand, are you legally correct?

Mrs Annie Walker, St Austell.