I FELT I had to respond to the letter from Ron Brind (June 9) regarding the future of The Ampleforth Arms, Risinghurst.

I too, like Mr Brind, was born in Risinghurst 70 years ago and I still live on the estate today.

I can recall what the estate was like many years ago and my dad and my friend’s dad used to share the pub with CS Lewis and Warnie.

I realise that Mr Brind was landlord of the Ampleforth some years ago, but I don’t think that gives him any qualification as to the future of the pub today as he does not live on the Risinghurst estate now.

With reference to the shops that have now gone, I very much doubt that Lewis or Warnie shopped there.

I think that would have been left to Mrs Moore, their housekeeper!

His facts about the house in Ringwood Road are incorrect as it has not been converted and is still the family house it was except for an extension.

So I think he has got the wrong number there.

If Mr Brind had come to the Risinghurst and Sandhills Community Fete in the playing field last Sunday he would have seen how much community spirit there is on the estate given the chance.

The reference to CS Lewis and Warnie drinking at the pub is purely a fact.

The real reason that the group want to save the Ampleforth is to have a new idea of making it a place for the community with community ideas and activities and not solely as a pub.

So please Mr Brind, don’t criticise this group for having a go. At least they are trying to preserve our community and deserve our support – and if it does not work out then at least they have tried.

MARGARET TAYLOR (nee Covey)
Stanway Road
Risinghurst
Oxford