Madam, It was good to see with John Cook's letter that The Chestnuts ball continues to roll. I spent five very happy years working there. In that time, by the very nature of the job, I built up close relationships with those I cared for, relationships that will last for years to come.

Many names come to mind but two people (no, 'characters' is a better word!) often crop up in conversations - Norman Wilding and Sidney Barnes. They told me some great stories over the years and it was with great sadness that I read in the Gazette that Sid has sadly left us. I am sure that I speak for all the "ex-nuts" when I send my sympathies to Betty and her family.

On a brighter note, I read on to find Norman's recollections. There are few people in Ross who do not know Norman and they will be pleased to know that after moving, with Gladys and Joyce, from The Chestnuts to Highfields Residential Home in Newent, he has settled in very well.

Finally, getting back to Mr Cook's letter – good point but too late I am afraid. The Chestnuts has sat there, since closure, with no heating and the damp slowly seeping through its old bricks. For the local authority to take it on now would make it a financial burden rather that an asset. Let us hope that if a housing development does appear on the site, the planners will call it 'The Chestnuts'.

Michael Field, Ross