We understand that people are incredibly upset and angry, and that a space of immeasurable value has been ripped from our community in sudden circumstances. Somerset Council’s actions have been reprehensible and unforgivable, and it should be ashamed.

People for Packsaddle are working tirelessly on behalf of this community to re-open the Fields. Meanwhile, we are urging all supporters to stay off the Fields while the fences are in place and to not tamper with or damage the fencing.

Simply put, we believe the best thing for our long-running campaign is to ensure that our conduct is beyond reproach. It is the Council and developer who have consistently behaved without decency or probity, and we will not stoop to their level. People may choose to follow their own conscience and do what they think is right, but this is our position.

We send our thanks to the overwhelming majority of people who, despite the provocation and the damage to their day-to-day lives, are doing exactly that. Thank you.