February 6, 2001 11:59: WHAT has happened to the wonderful landmark overlooking Princes Risborough?

I look back at pictures from 1890 right up until 1990, the Whiteleaf Cross stood "whiter" than ever, a grand feature marking our wonderful town and the Chiltern Hills.

I remember as a child climbing up the middle then looking back at my achievement with a sense of exploration and daring. The Whiteleaf Cross and surrounding woodland was the centre of attraction for many young people, helping to expand their sense of fun and adventure.

When the time came to leave your home town and explore the wider world, nothing was more wonderful than to see the "cross" knowing that you were truly "home".

Times change. People in the know have decided this outstanding feature needs protecting, however not maintaining.

Just put fences up warning all of the dangers but do nothing.

Yes, of course I should have realised before I started this letter that money is the reason and from who's budget? I don't think the word budget appeared in the dictionary until after 1970 or was it 1980?

If the powers to be are unable to deal with and maintain this situation, then I appeal to the many businesses and entrepreneurs that pride themselves living and working in the area.

Why not bring this wonderful lady back to her glory and use her as an emblem of quality. Why give all your money to the tax man!

Graham Liggins Angood Close Princes Risborough

This state of the cross was featured in the Bucks Free Press on Friday Editor