PERHAPS I'm biased because I live in Grappenhall but I'm absolutely stunned to learn that plans are being considered for a travellers' camp near the village.

Yes, this is the historic, picturesque village and the land is known locally as Grappenhall Lodge.

I'm told that the site has been bought by a traveller and work has already begun clearing the area with bulldozers preparing the land for caravans.

What next, slapping some tarmac on the cobbles?

There is already a permanent travellers' site at Walton - why do we need another in the town?

This area is within the green belt - so it is supposed to be protected from any development, never mind a travellers' camp.

Does this mean anything anymore?

Over the years, the village has often been used for filming historical TV programmes just because it is so pretty and unchanged by time.

Parish councillors are urging villagers to be vigilant as they are worried that the development will start without proper planning permission.

But surely the council shouldn't even consider any development there otherwise why have a green belt at all? It's quite preposterous.

I sometimes wonder if anything is sacred.

In 10 years time will we have any green spaces left?

If I see any sign of development there I won't be keeping quiet - I'll be shouting it from the rooftops.

It's not a crime to care about the area where you live and I make no apologies for doing so.