Sir - The news that Cogges Manor Farm, near Witney, may be closed and sold by the county council is very sad indeed and it would be a great loss to our county if this takes place.

Over 5,000 school children, large numbers of local residents and visitors to the county visit the site every year.

It is important that we know where our food comes from and this is shown at Cogges Farm, albeit on a small scale with hand milking, hens, pigs and threshing on a threshing machine, together with the pursuit of country crafts and the cultivation of a large fruit, flower and vegetable garden as it was in the Victorian times. There are similar establishments which seem to prosper in the county.

Is it that the council, with all its paperwork, rules and regulations, is just too hidebound to be able to keep the farm open? Is it not like the police who now have to employ community officers as much of their time is spent as office workers?

If you want to see Cogges Farm kept open, write to the county council with your comments and views.

H. Beuzeval, Oxford