I write this in response to the letter published in your paper last week entitled 'Demolish Stable Block'.

The letter smacks of nothing more than a piece of Herdman bashing, using the issue of the stable as a means of voicing their opinion, forgetting the contribution Herdman's made to the village in terms of education. Herdman's in fact are responsible for establishing one of the first integrated schools in Ireland right here in our village in Sion Mills. Not forgetting their efforts in terms of accommodation, recreational facilities and employment, resulting in Sion Mills being one of the most advanced villages of its time. Sadly the demise of the mill can be accredited to the shift of the textile industry to Eastern Europe an Asia and unfortunately the Herdman's were quite simply victims of the economic climate.

Whilst other communities strive to maintain their Listed Buildings, our so called concerned resident wants to knock it down despite the stable being part of the village for many years. It is certainly not what was termed a 'white elephant' to the villagers of Sion Mills. The vast majority of the villagers look forward to the prospect of the building being restored to its former glory. We can only hope that this is achievable in the very near future.

To the so-called 'concerned resident' of Sion Mills; with respect to all his/her current problems; I urge you to give up the pen and paper and act accordingly to rectify the issues presently occupying your mind. Don't be like those currently in government at Stormont . . . the phrase 'all talk and no action' springs to mind

Sion Mills born and bred