Sir – As a local farmer and regular of The Chequers in Churchill for 30 years, I was intrigued and amused to read your article over the ‘bitter row’ (last week's Gazette) currently gripping the village and pitching ‘locals’ and landlords against each other.

Complaints about noise and tawdry behaviour have largely emanated from new arrivals in the village, who bought their houses while the pub was less active within the past six or so years.

Or, in the case of councillor Neil Owen, from people who live in a different village altogether.

The pub is now a huge success, providing a wonderful atmosphere for Hoorays, tradesmen, farmers and locals in many different outfits, and is busier as a result.

It is a pub and not a tea room. Buying a house next to a pub is probably unwise if a quiet life is desired.

Congratulations to the team at The Chequers for keeping the pub tradition going and also to the locals who have the ability to enjoy a convivial community meeting place. Long may it continue.

Tom Astor, Merriscourt Farm, Sarsden