I refer to the statement which appeared in your last edition Councillors barred from centre's AGM' (October 26), which has caused a great deal of anger and resentment within the membership of the Three Ways Community Association.

Hertsmere Borough Council paid for the replacement Three Ways Community Centre in preference to executing extensive costly remedial work to the existing centre, which was originally built using the funds raised by people living in Kenilworth and Hillside wards and grants from Elstree Rural District Council (predecessor of the borough council) and Elstree and Boreham Wood Town Council.

The council many years later inherited sole responsibility for the centre as a result of a break clause in the agreement made with the association.

The association has never received any funding from the borough council, although over the years we have been invited to apply for grants and on each occasion we have declined.

The association has received from the council over a period of many years a great deal of tolerance and moral support for which we are grateful and remain indebted.

The association in return has become an integral part of the many social activities taking place within Borehamwood in keeping with our adopted motto: Forever part of the community'.

The sum of £70,000 a year, referred to in the article as being funded by the council for services, is misleading and requires clarification.

This payment is made exclusively to Quantum Care, to fund the services provided to the elderly within the community. Quantum Care uses the premises as a day centre for the elderly five days each week.

The association was requested by officers of the council to accommodate Quantum Care's use of the centre.

Following consultation, the association's general management committee agreed to surrender the use of the family room as a permanent day room for Quantum Care.

In compensation for the loss of revenue income from the family room and week day lunchtime trading, the association receives a payment from Quantum Care every three months.

The other matter mentioned with regards the role and status of council representatives will be discussed between Councillor Morris Bright and myself within the next few days.

Frank Ward
chairman, Three Ways Community Association