I WAS saddened to read of the way Burnley Wood has deteriorated over the years and of the vandalism to the Over-50s Centre (LET, May 20).

My family, the Stephensons/Slingers, lived in Burnley Wood for more than 100 years. I had a very happy and safe childhood living there with some great friends. My brother tells me I would not believe how it is now.

Gone are the days of Burnley Wood as I knew and loved it. My ancestors would turn in their graves if they could see it now.

Let's hope things will improve for all the decent folk still living there.

JOAN REID, Rockingham, Western Australia.