I HAVE just returned from a visit to Leigh-on-Sea in Essex. It was like going back in time, when towns were made up of a variety of small independent retailers. There were the baker, the butcher and the fruit and veg shop side by side with numerous indep

I HAVE just returned from a visit to Leigh-on-Sea in Essex. It was like going back in time, when towns were made up of a variety of small independent retailers.

There were the baker, the butcher and the fruit and veg shop side by side with numerous independent clothes and jewellery shops. What a joy! All these retailers sold goods you do not see in any of the multiples.

The most outstanding shop was a version of the Handyman in St Neots (which is now another victim). The retailer of this very small shop sold everything under the sun, not an empty inch of space to be seen. It is a credit to the people of this town who keep these small businesses ticking over.

SUE BUCKELDEE, Henbrook, St Neots