Dark skies and broader views on the Isle of Wight

http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2015/apr/12/dark-skies-and-broader-views-on-isle-of-wight

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I am sorry that Polly Toynbee cannot understand why anyone might like the Isle of Wight (Tory Britain rehearses its collapse on the Isle of Wight, 7 April). It is true (and lamentable) that the island suffers great inequality, but in that it is a microcosm of Britain as a whole. It is also true that much of its population is, like Polly Toynbee and me, ageing and white. I hope they feel suitably guilty.

But what the article overlooks is not only the unusual politeness and friendliness of most islanders (at least in my experience) but also the Isle of Wight’s stunning natural beauty, inland and coastal. It really is a gem. And as well as having a variety of lovely, unspoilt landscapes, it is probably the best place in southern England to enjoy truly dark skies at night.

The Isle of Wight is not as warm as Tuscany or Provence, and the food is not as good, but it is one of the most beautiful parts of our beautiful country. When commentators like Polly Toynbee go on tour to take the pulse of the electorate, they should take a few hours out for a walk in the countryside. It would improve their views in more ways than one.Shaun SpiersChief executive, Campaign to Protect Rural England

• Polly Toynbee has really had to scratch around to find evidence of Labour success at local council level in one bit of the Isle of Wight and it is remarkably perverse of her to give the impression that the constituency is otherwise solidly Conservative. It was represented in parliament by my Liberal colleague Stephen Ross from 1974 to 1987 and by Liberal Democrat Peter Brand from 1997 to 2001; 40% non-Conservative representation in recent years doesn’t suggest an overly “solid” Tory electorate.Michael MeadowcroftLeeds