Chris Tracey, of Bugford, near Dartmouth, writes:

I am writing with regards to Dartmouth harbour office's annual general meeting, with the concern it will be portrayed as a raving success with a great play put on by Brixham School and the harbour office presenting cheques to the schools.

I think the youth scheme is a great project, however the idea of the AGM is for its shareholders, that is those of us who keep our boats on the river and use its facilities, to find out how it is being run but also, very importantly, to have the opportunity to air our concerns about certain matters on the river and with its management.

This was the opportunity for us to get our message to the board members. Unfortunately this did not happen. Although there was definitely an air of discontent in the room, the board didn't want to hear any complaints that might be deemed personal.

I don't believe that if the person with the complaint wishes to speak up it should be classed as personal, as obviously they are quite happy for people to know.

It seems more that the harbour office is worried that others will find out some of the outrageous actions being taken by the current management.

There were still plenty of people who had questions for the board but unfortunately questions and answers had to be cut short due to time limitations.

Maybe if we hadn't watched a play for 20 minutes, we could have completed the intended itinerary for the meeting.

Also I am sure people would rather get to the bottom of things rather than drink wine and eat nibbles at the end.

There is still a lot of discontent in the town with the harbourmaster and the board at this time.

I would call for another meeting early in the new year where we the shareholders can air our issues with the board so they can really see what is going on, and those that were not able to air their views due to time limitations get the opportunity.

Remember it is our river and we should speak up if we are not happy with how it is being run.