Re: travellers and Gipsies

I HAVE been very encouraged in the last few weeks, both by the attitude of the district council and the Bucks Free Press (a first for me). Well done!

In answer to Sandra Muir's letter (July 21 - 'Gipsy campsite fears are obvious'), I quite agree the mess she saw on an unofficial site was disgraceful. There are several reasons why rubbish is left, but I admit no excuses, it is disgusting.

Some councils supply skips for a price, others have official Gipsy sites.

I will say though, once again, I was proved right by declaring Wycombe racist against Gipsy and traveller folk.

The front page article last week, of a severely-disabled traveller wishing to settle down, proves the point. A public meeting was held! Does this happen to any other ethnic minority? I think not. How do the local residents know who this man is? Perhaps he is an ex-serviceman who fought for freedom!

I speak to the Gauga population (Gauga means non-Gipsy) of Holmer Green. You have threatened 'civil disturbance', you said the council had better act fast or 'there will be trouble'. You said you 'would withhold payment of council tax if the family were moved in'.

All we ask is equal rights, not special rights. Let us settle down if we want, you don't like us travelling.

When High Wycombe completed its Phase 1 'face-lift' in the town centre, the council asked David Essex to 'open' it.

David Essex is the patron for the Gipsy Council! He didn't take up Wycombe's offer. I wonder why!!?

To quote David Essex: 'A land without Gipsies is a land without freedom.'

So why don't you start by putting a capital 'G' for Gipsy. We are an ethnic minority, and would like to be treated as such. Not too much to ask, is it?

There are many famous Gipsies in showbiz and sport, be careful if you are racist, you may just be cheering one of us.

Finally where is the voice of the Christians, the Church? It's gone quiet, some travellers follow the most famous traveller of all time, Jesus Christ.

I pray that one day people of all races, black, white, 'skyblue, pink' regardless of our differences will live together in harmony.

If you would like more information on Gipsy/traveller culture, please inquire through the Bucks Free Press, to me at the Full Gospel Romani Church International.

Rev T Hurst

Shero Roma Rashai

(Head Romani Priest)

Plomer Green Avenue

Downley