This week's comments made by Hertfordshire County Council will not comfort the tireless campaigners hoping to see Radlett Fire Station reopened.

David Beatty's refusal to answer more questions on the subject is an insult to the 7,000 people who signed a petition in support of seeing the station open again.

By getting this much support, campaigners have managed to show the strength of feeling of the village and surrounding area and have a definite mandate to push forward.

This year is the centenary of the station, opened after residents raised money. Let's hope that in memory of this act of community spirit the county council changes its mind and at least gives the people of Radlett the courtesy of listening.