SIR - I am shocked and upset to hear the news about the threats to the Tower Art Centre.

I am a regular attendee and my children also go to the weekly drama classes and the half-term workshops.

I have seen at first hand the great things it does for the children of the area.

The success of the place is down to the way it is managed by John Tellett and his staff.

They have an engaging and innovative approach that inspires young and old alike.

The place is thriving - why would anyone contemplate changing a winning formula?

I can only surmise that the county council does not understand the true value of the place.

I am even more baffled by the comments from the county council of "early days" (Margaret Snaith) and "preliminary discussions" (Ken Thornber).

This seems to contradict the instruction to the centre not to take any more bookings after Christmas 2007!

It gives the impression that the decision has already been taken.

Information from the county council is sparse, to say the least. It seems that the suggestion is that the Tower could be managed by Kings' School with some of the performances transferring to the new Discovery Centre. Was this always the plan?

I certainly do not recall any discussion of this when the Discovery Centre was envisaged.

If I had known at the time I would have protested strongly.

Jackie Wright, Stanmore Lane, Winchester.