IN THE light of the current furore over the closure of most of Andover Leisure Centre (ALC) on its management handover to Places for People Leisure (PfP) the old management team Valley Leisure have tended to be forgotten.

As longstanding ALC members my wife and I would personally like to thank all at Valley Leisure for their hard work and dedication shown to the local people over the last 15 years.

We have seen many changes over the years. Kevin Patterson and his team have put considerable effort into developing the ALC throughout their tenure and have consequently grown the membership and footfall markedly.

In addition to the loss of many facilities that we have heard much about in the local press, the Valley Leisure outreach offering to local school children will also be sadly missed as we assume it will be lost under PfP as it has not been mentioned to date.

Over the years, thousands of children have enjoyed activity days run by Valley Leisure which have helped them to overcome personal challenges, try new activities and develop their self-confidence and teamworking skills.

This aspect will be a sad loss that will be felt almost immediately by local schools.

Another unfortunate loss will be the many friendly and helpful staff who have recently left, were due to leave on 31 March or will be made redundant over the next few months.

Thankyou all for the help and support you have provided over the years. We are sure it has been greatly appreciated by all members and visitors alike.

Friday, March 31 was a sad day for many we are sure.

To those leaving for pastures new, those remaining with PfP and those moving forward with Valley Leisure’s new venture, we wish you all the best for the future. Thankyou.

S Smith, Cypress Grove, Andover