Sir.-Art attack - yes, I am having one!

I refer to the story in last Friday's Gazette, regarding the borough's world-class (well, we've known that for years) gallery, to be called The Making.

I have lived here for 32 years and am now a retired teacher.

Thirty years ago I first exhibited my wood sculpture and my pupils' artwork (from John Hunt school) at The Viables.

Since then, we have all - young, old, artistic, crafty, disabled, professional, students and friends - exhibited in the eight large and small galleries of Basingstoke.

Would Mrs Benton like to view 22 large buildings currently empty in our town, all of which are perfect for her venture?

She would not need £19million, or two years. I am confident she could use the £500,000 of initial funding and be up and running for St George's Day, 2005.

I will be only too happy to help.

-Christina Taplin, Sherfield-on-Loddon.