SIR, Recently my wife and I spent a long weekend in Monmouth with an old friend who lives in the town. Both my wife and I felt we had to write to someone to thank the people we met while in Monmouth for their friendly and welcoming nature, especially those people we met both in and around the Gatehouse. What a wonderful atmosphere and what happy and friendly clientele the pub has. To sit or stand up on the balcony and look into the river and the lovely old bridge was very pleasing. Mixing and conversing with local residents outside the pub on the walls of the bridge was extraordinary. As we have said, the friendly nature and atmosphere around the area would be an eye-opener to any town in Britain. Well worth the visit! Eric and Mo (Cheshire)