I believe my quote in last week’s edition regarding the siting of a full size replica tank in Trowbridge Park requires further illumination. Whilst not against an interest group constructing a replica tank, I do object to such an object being sited in our public park, especially given this requires the ripping out mature trees and appropriating public space in perpetuity. As I suggested at the Town Council meeting, a much more appropriate site would be the grounds of Courtfield House once it has become the new home for the museum.

In no way do I seek to be disrespectful of the loss of lives during armed conflicts. However, I do believe we already have a poignant memorial to those who fell and that this, along with our stunning avenue of trees planted to commemorate our war dead, is a fitting tribute. Many readers may not be aware that a large number of towns scrapped or sold off their presentation tanks within a few short years of receiving them as they caused undue stress and embarrassment. Other town councils were grateful that the scrap drive of 1939-45 was a convenient way to dispose of these painful relics.

A recent visit to Birkenau reaffirmed to me how the most poignant moments are experienced not through observing physical structures, but within the open spaces where one has time to reflect. If, like me, you wish to protect our beautiful park for future generations you have one significant opportunity to influence the full council body before a vote is taken. This is at Full Council on Tuesday, March 18 at 7pm in the Civic Centre.

There is no need to dress up, no need to draft a fancy speech, and you can be assured of a warm welcome. Just take a moment to let councillors know you wish to preserve our park so that all generations can play and relax in peace, rather than giving away public space to an eye-wateringly costly, anachronistic, fenced-off replica.

Cllr Andrew Bryant, Trowbridge Town Council – Paxcroft Ward (Lib Dem), Horse Road, Hilperton Marsh.