SIR,

As the Olympic Games comes to a close it is time to use this newfound spirit of optimism to inspire generations.

There is much Monmouth has to offer sat on two rivers, in a place of beauty, with three secondary schools in the town that could be used to benefit those who live here and attract ever more tourists.

Has the town got the vision to take some risks and and make some small and big changes to up the profile of the area.

Sports clubs, schools and councils should come together and plan for the coming years to open up facilities and upgrade where needed.

And why not build a beach volleyball court here, and lets expand the potential and resources with lottery money and private sponsors.

Some added touches could make the beauty we have here more beautiful.

Why not have floral displays in the main street? A mural on the new new bridge? More benches by the river?

A new playground in Chippenham park, where there is plenty of space? Where can we build BMX cycle areas? With a little effort there could be far more places to cycle and walk clearly marked.

Why not start a new Monmouth Olympics as an extension of the festival?

Now Great Britain has shown what can be done by vision and excellence, let this town be one of the first to embrace this. Any help needed here I am. What about you?

Stephen Starkie

(Whitchurch)