FAREWELL: WHAT a shame! Not only for Jason and Sue, and the locals of the Coachmakers, but also for Hanley and Stoke-on-Trent, which looks likely to lose one of its few gems, thanks to a load of inept councillors who always believe developers who say Stoke-on-Trent can shop its way to the top.

Councillors must travel around this city with their eyes firmly shut. You only have travel from one end of the city to the other to see what a mess this council and developers have made.

LAST ORDERS: Jason Barlow and Sue Grocott standing outside the Coachmakers, pictured inset.

I don't expect any of them drank in the Coachmakers – one of the finest public houses of its kind in the whole country, run by the most honest, hard-working, warm couple you could ever meet. The atmosphere was always friendly, with a cracking, well-kept pint of ale. Stoke at its best - unique, historical, much-loved. I know – let's knock it down! Build a new bus station which is not fit for purpose (too small, not enough bays) and yes – you've guessed it – more shopping space, to go with all the other empty shopping space around the city. Manchester and Birmingham, watch out!

I know the city needs a new bus station but that need not mean destroying such an icon for the city. Any half-decent architect could incorporate the Coachmakers in the design. However, the developers chosen by the council have a great track record: Ceramica in Burslem – say no more!

Cheers, Jason & Sue. Cheers to the Coachmakers and all who drank there. Shame on the city leaders, who lack courage and foresight.

CHRIS BADDELEY

Werrington