Last updated 21:20, Thursday, 27 March 2008

I HAVE lived in the vicinity of Portland Square in Workington for many years of my long life. I have never known or heard of any accidents caused by the kidney stones in the square.

The stones are contemporary with the creation of the square and require no maintenance or attention.

It would not be possible to get a more suitable material.

Not only do the stones provide character and atmosphere, they are attractive and being in a conservation area have the protection they deserve.

There is little left in Workington of character and interest, so much having been destroyed by the people supposed to care for the town.

Let me give you some examples.

The cross which marked the resting place of St Cuthbert's body, the Market Cross in the High Market, Billy Bumley's house, the Old Customs House, an 18th century tavern on Ramsey Brow, picturesque Victorian cottages in Christian Street, Cuckoo Arch, the Corn Exchange in Uldale Street, the Victorian cottages in the same street, all except three which are there to this day.

All gone, and others besides. To cover Portland Square with anything other than the existing kidney stones would be a cultural crime.

For the money, they could spend on vandalising the square, they could use it to reduce the council tax.

The ultimate example of the destruction of Workington's character is there for all to see. I mean Workington Hall.

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