I suspect that a number of you are regular users of "The Avenue" that runs between Sandown Park and Blackhurst Lane. You may also be aware that during the period when we tried to establish the path as an established Public Right of Way, one of our neighbours who lives off Sandown Park, kindly sourced and installed a delightful bench that you may have used at some time or another at your leisure.

Over the years it has occasionally been subject to some damage from one source or another and sadly, once again, that is now the case. Previously, another of our neighbours has kindly given up his own time to repair the bench. However, he has now moved away so we're reaching out to you all today to seek a small contribution to its replacement.

Obviously we cannot rule out that any replacement will be free from damage at some point in the future. But we feel the new design (pictured) is far more robust than its predecessor, which was more “ornamental”, but equally attractive. And given that the previous bench was a welcome and pleasant addition to The Avenue we feel that replacing it is worth a try.

The cost of the new bench, including delivery and ground anchors, is expected to be in the region of £1,200. So we're thinking that if every household who regularly take advantage of The Avenue were to contribute £20 (of course, more if you wish!) then it will go a long way to sourcing the funds we need to replace the bench.

We would very much welcome your support for this proposal.

Simon Turner/Martin Alderman