I AM writing with regards to the closure of East Devon Shellfish. I think it is important to remember that this company has been employing local people for a very long time now. It has also been vital in supporting our fishermen, something which our coun

I AM writing with regards to the closure of East Devon Shellfish. I think it is important to remember that this company has been employing local people for a very long time now. It has also been vital in supporting our fishermen, something which our councillors have so far omitted to mention. What puzzles me is why our councillors have not been so vociferous in the past in campaigning for the closure or relocation of this factory? I did note a letter in your newspaper last year from somebody, who had recently moved to Exmouth, complaining about East Devon Shellfish. They were articulate in describing how the factory was affecting their quality of life. Surely the question has to be asked as to why they did not notice the smell when they first visited the area and subsequently decided to purchase their property and move down here? The campaign has obviously gained momentum, but it is important to remember that, in this economic climate, jobs are vital to our local economy. Our councillors should also do everything in their power to support our local fishing industry and take into account how this campaign and subsequent closure of the factory has affected the fishermen and their families' livelihoods. Local people need jobs and the fishing industry needs all the support it can get. Steve Gerrard,Exeter Road, Exmouth.