The closure of Aldenham Sailing Club is more than a shame. Back in March, the Watford Observer told how the owners of the reservoir Liberty Lake Leisure (LLL) Ltd submitted plans to build 50 housing ‘pods’ on the eastern end of the lake - plans which were rejected by Hertsmere Borough Council as the lake is on green belt land.

LLL subsequently reduced the water level of the reservoir on the grounds of a confidential dam inspector’s report which claimed the dam was unstable, rendering sailing untenable.

Now, a sailing club that has been there for 83 years is no more. A loss not only for those keen to take up sailing but for future generations who will be denied the opportunity.

At a time when we’re being urged to think local and avoid travel during the lockdown, the loss of use of amenities like Aldenham reservoir will come at a heavy cost.

Dave Degen, Whippendell Road, Watford