I AM rather concerned of the articles I have read in the Standard regarding the campaign to destroy the lake by the prom and turn it back to a swimming pool where by a member of the public drowned triggering the pools closure in 2002.

The campaigners state they have more than 7,000 signatures.

However, when I have raised the subject I have yet to find anybody who is in favour of it.

Indeed, rather than show interest many have shown displeasure over the idea.

I would be interested as to how many of the 7,000 live in Maldon and be prepared to don their budgie smugglers and take a dip.

I am not adverse to the activity. I have ventured into the white water rivers of the Rockies, the Lagoons in Iceland where the outside temperature has been several degrees below freezing.

Living near Southend, I regularly swam in the see at Thorpe Bay and Leigh so I am very familiar with the campaigners’ interest in open swimming.

Since moving to Maldon there are local opportunities closer to Maldon; Goldhanger, Mersea and of course, the existing tidal pool at Tollesbury.

Why visit Maldon on high days and holidays with gridlock and parking charges for a swim with so many other places to choose.

The Lake is very attractive with its established flora and fauna that has found their home there.

It is a joy to see families with children feeding the birds as has been since time immemorial.

I often wonder which came first child or duck. There is ample supply of duck and swan food from the Lakeside Café by the sand pit.

From a personal point of view their sausage rolls are to die for.

Over the years the prom has changed, the playgrounds of Maldon Promenade Park with a splash park and pirate ship for the children and boating lake can be found beyond the four cafes towards Byrthnoth.

Keep the serenity of the lake, the crafts, the cafe and Thames Barges for peaceful enjoyment.

I love the outdoors and very active but would never sacrifice nature for my own amusement.

Mervyn Perriman

Guernsey Court, Spital Road