Sir:
I write in response to two letters: One written by Mr. Willie Allan complaining about the closure of the Katouche Valley area where there are two historic caves; and the other by Reverend John Gumbs explaining why the area was closed by the owners.
I am on the side of Reverend Gumbs. This is privately-owned treasured property and anybody going there without permission – and a tour guide – is obviously a trespasser. It is not property which someone who does not own it, can “show off” to his friends.
Nobody complained when the Fountain Cavern at Shoal Bay was sealed off some years ago and is still sealed. Persons, unknown, reportedly removed items, and what not, from there. It is a pity that the Katouche Caves were not closed off before. The unfortunate disappearance of some historic items and the defacement with graffiti would have been avoided.
As someone interested in the preservation of history, I look forward to the planned development of Katouche Valley by its owners. This should be a plus for Anguilla, its people and those, like me, who have been visiting the island over the years.
Nick Brystone
