Rescind kite ban please
I was very disappointed to learn of East Devon District Council s decision to restrict kite surfers, buggies and boards on the Imperial Recreation Ground and the seeming acquiescence of the town council in this decision.
I was very disappointed to learn of East Devon District Council's decision to restrict kite surfers, buggies and boards on the Imperial Recreation Ground and the seeming acquiescence of the town council in this decision.
I am not actually a kite surfer myself, but a windsurfer and have rigged up my sails for some years on the rec', so in recent times have witnessed the increasing numbers of sportsmen and women using kites there.
I can understand these activities might be an annoyance to those involved in more traditional pastimes, even on occasion an annoyance to me, but I feel strongly this is a matter in which tolerance ought to be expected. After all, I put up with with good humour the marauding dogs!
Quite simply, the rec' is invaluable and, around here, a unique, resource for people practising various kinds of watersports. In my experience, everyone does show the required tolerance and, indeed, the passers-by seem to get pleasure out of watching at close quarters the kites flying, after the tangles of lines are sorted out.
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People do come from near and far to use these facilities and it is vital for people learning these sports to be able to benefit from help and advice from others of the community and to be able to make their mistakes in a safe environment.
The seafront is often not a safe alternative and, if the kite surfers cannot use the rec', they will either stay away altogether, launch in dangerous locations, or spend more time out on the sand banks disturbing feeding birds.
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As for the sport being a hazard to others, I can only say I have never witnessed anyone being hurt - and it is much safer on the rec' at such times than trying to cross the road at the roundabout! Can EDDC please rescind this unnecessary order.
Adrian Toole,
16 Bicton Street, Exmouth.
