Leisure Centre repairs

In view of your news item about the difficulties of funding works on the town's most significant sports facility, would it not make sense to sell the Soper Hall to the highest bidder and put the money in a fund for repairing and improving de Stafford Leisure Centre? Getting the Leisure Centre out of a situation where the body responsible for its maintenance does not budget adequately for repairs would seem to be a useful operation. The crisis-management approach of putting out the begging bowl when something breaks down is not satisfactory for an aging building of doubtful build quality. John Harvey, Caterham.

Seeking old friends

I grew up in the Caterham area for much of my life and now live in Norfolk. I went to Kenley Primary School, Roke Secondary School then on to Riddlesdown High and I lived in Valley Road Kenley. I would love to contact some old friends such as Jane Ward, Sandra Mainwaring, Beryl Taylor, Barbara Poole and anyone who may remember me. My email address should anyone wish to contact me is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Geraldine Roseblade née Douglas, Norfolk.

Best local shop competition

There aren't many shops in Caterham where you are guaranteed a smile and a chat nowadays. It would be great if somebody would organise a competition giving residents the opportunity to nominate their favourite shop. At Marden Lodge shopping parade I always get a cheerful welcome from the owners, the walk keeps me fit and bumping into the neighbours is really nice as well. The fact that the newsagents is now open from 6.30am until 10.00pm means I have plenty of time to do my shopping and don't have to dash out. So, will somebody please organise a competition because I want to make my nomination as soon as possible! Christine Greaves, Caterham.