WE WISH to thank everyone who turned up outside the Tropicana to protest against the new beach ban. Although we were there

WE WISH to thank everyone who turned up outside the Tropicana to protest against the new beach ban. Although we were there to make a serious point about restrictions on walking our dogs on the beach in winter, I think we all enjoyed a good social occasion with like-minded people who want to keep as many areas open to dog walkers as possible. I apologise for the queue at the table to sign the petition - we didn't expect quite so many people to turn up.I gave the petition to Darren Fairchild, environmental protection officer at North Somerset Council, and discussed possible changes to the current legislation. He seemed very open-minded about some sort of compromise, but obviously defended his reasons for recommending the ban. What we need now is for everyone to express their objections to the ban by writing to Darren Fairchild directly at Environmental Protection, PO Box 139, Town Hall, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1EG.My own letter will be: "I disagree with the new winter dog ban imposed on the main section of Weston beach. A short-term compromise would be an amendment to allow winter access along the whole of Weston beach, but keeping approximately 50 yards away from the promenade on the banned section, ie a line along the sea edge of the Tropicana. Leaving dog mess in any public area is totally irresponsible and more effort should be made by the council to catch the culprits and fine them."DYLAN THE COLLIE, RITA AND COLIN 'SCOOBY DOO' GRANNER - Via email