WHO is this shopkeeper who, after all of 12 weeks in Hereford, wants to see the end of more than nine centuries of tradition in our city?

The motivation is obvious: he has noted a downturn in his takings for three out of the 365 days of opening his doors.

He would deprive thousands of our people and, more importantly, their children, of annual fun in an expression of the all-too familiar grab for maximum profit.

If Mr Woodhouse is concerned about security in his shop, he has access to many highly qualified security organisations if Marks & Spencer cannot deal with this temporary situation. When Mr Woodhouse has been able to gain a little more experience of an ancient city in which he has the privilege of working, it is to be hoped he will realise how fortunate he is, working a place of history and tradition not entirely devoted to the god of profit.

MORLEY SMITH, Mansel Lacy, Hereford.