Madam, The closure of the Chestnuts is clearly a matter of concern for your readers and I need to confirm that the council and the trustees worked together to seek a possible solution when the trustees decided to close the home.

However despite seeking alternative providers to take over the running of the home, none that were suitable came forward and as a result the building is now surplus to requirements.

The reality of the current economic climate means that the council simply cannot afford to keep hold of empty premises - hence the decision to sell this building.

David Powell, chief officer, finance and commercial, Herefordshire Council