Sir – It was interesting to read in your Gazette Past article on August 27 about the discovery in 1984 of the remains of the Bishop’s Palace, off Church Green.

I seem to recall that at the time there was much excitement about it, a building development was abandoned, the site fully excavated, information boards set up and a protective canopy installed.

I have visited it a few times over the years, but recently have discovered that the information hut is locked and the site is only open on weekdays, when staff are working at Mount House.

There are no signs in the town centre giving directions to the palace, and Witney seems to have forgotten all about this fascinating piece of history – many local people I mention it to are unaware of its existence.

It seems ironic that Bampton is attracting coachload of tourists on the basis of a fictional TV series, yet there appears to be no interest in promoting what I should have thought most towns would see as a considerable asset both in educational terms and in attracting visitors.

Does anyone know why the Bishop’s Palace is Witney’s best kept secret?

Christine Keable, Burwell Drive, Witney