Lizzie.

My dearest petal.

I have received a few considered comments on my draft report, and I have noticed yours. The webpage is being updated. The other evening, whilst you were no doubt busy continuing to vent your emotions, I (and several folk dance friends) were supporting the organisers of Last Minute Ceilidhs by attending one of the Great Western Ceilidhs in Exeter. It really is a case of 'use it or lose it' with many of these local folk events, so where were you?

It was a splendid evening, the Pixies were in fine form and all that was missing was the sight of you with my name on the top of your hug card.

The next day, I was busy supporting another local dance group. It's all worth it just for the hugs - you should try it sometime, it might make you more equitable.

As for the 'daft' woman at the meeting, I was told all about her and considered putting a dismissive comment in my report. However, it was pointed out to me that I should report what she said without being judgemental. It was also pointed out to me that despite the fact that she may well be 'bonkers' what she actually said has (to my direct knowledge) been said many times by many people in Sidmouth. It is sad I know, but it is also a fact.

As for your comment:

It was Steve Heap's Sidmouth which brought me to live in this town in the first place and for that I will always be very grateful, because it has given me a music that I love.

Yes I know, it's one the reasons I came to live here too.

I think we need to enjoy Sidmouth and the world while it lasts - if the worst happens (which I naturally believe it will) Sidmouth will be under the waves and all we shall have left are a few faded images of how life once was, and of course a few songs. Our town council will probably be in a bunker somewhere, debating the colour of roofing felt on a garden shed, oblivious to the fact that the whole road has been washed away.

Believe it or not, when I bought my home in Sidford I checked how far above sea level it was, and having in mind even in those days the melting of the icecaps. It may not be long now - and as a scientist I know a bit about positive feedback. It's very dangerous. It is why a door slams shut so suddenly and why Chernobyl was an accident waiting to happen (any increase in temperature makes the moderator less effective). Negative feedback is so much safer, don't you agree?