I JUST wanted to thank all the customers of Doves Christian bookshop over the two decades the venture has been my responsibility.

It has been a great sadness to have to close the Centre although I remain with hope that someone will believe it is now their turn and feel inspired to take it forwards.

I am confident that with owner occupiers at the helm it would be a very viable, vibrant business and witness in the heart of the town.

My gratitude, too, to all the staff who have worked with such dedication to the shop over the years.

PHILIP J MILTON,

Prospective parliamentary candidate,

North Devon Conservative Party,

The Strand,

Barnstaple.