SIR,
It was interesting to read Ms Beirne's comments on the subject of the flag flying over Monmouth's Shire Hall as reported in last week's Monmouthshire Beacon.
Flag-flying in a place like Monmouth is fraught with potential danger. It touches closely on identity.
In this historic border town, identity really needs and deserves a subtle and nuanced approach, something not often appreciated by local media and unlikely to be promoted through any sort of flag-waving.
Your comments reported in the Beacon said: "The Shire Hall in Monmouth is a historically important building and the town itself plays a significant part in both Welsh and English history".
These really do give cause for some thankfulness that you are mindful of the sensitivity of the identity 'issue' here in Monmouth.
It is good to see this in a chief officer for regeneration and culture.
I would also like to thank Monmouthshire County Council for a wonderful restoration of the Shire Hall.
Stephen North
(Monmouth)