Jonathan Hawkins, South Hams district councilor for Dartmouth, writes: I write in reply to Simon Howes' letter about the HMS Britannia floral display in the Dartmouth's Royal Avenue Gardens. Last year, this was commissioned by South Hams Council to help celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Royal Navy bringing the original HMS Britannia to the Dart and starting cadet training in the town. It received national recognition, as well as being in the press and on television. It helped and will continue to promote our special town, both as a holiday destination and reaffirm its close ties with the Royal Navy. It also, in a small way, helped the Royal Avenue Gardens and Dartmouth Green Partnership achieve last year's record tally of trophies in Britain in Bloom. Dartmouth and South Hams were invited by the Royal Horticultural Society to attend next week's RHS Tatton Show near Manchester. This is second only to Chelsea and was a major achievement. This again will promote our small town in an international stage. The stand will be promoting Dartmouth with a banner and Discover Dartmouth leaflets. The floral display will then return to Dartmouth for the remainder of the summer. I believe it has already proved its worth.

*********** Hilary Bastone, South Hams district councillor for Dartmouth writes: I am delighted to report back to you on the fate of the floral galleon in Royal Avenue Gardens following last week's letter on the subject. The galleon frame does indeed have a lifespan of around 10 years and is currently being replanted. It will be displayed at RHS Tatton Park Flower Show from July 23 to 27, before returning to Dartmouth in August.