Mrs J M Page is concerned about the site in Rottingdean purchased by Tesco (Letters, August 17).

The number of plastic shopping bags carried and shopping trolleys wheeled to and from Rottingdean High Street rather proves there is a high percentage of basic necessity shopping carried out on foot both by those who do not drive and those who do, because most of our available parking spaces are taken very early by those who work in the shops and businesses.

I wrote to the Co-op head office in January, long before the present controversy, and, judging by the reply and subsequent reaction, do not think the Co-op is opposed to competition.

It would leave the shop free to concentrate on its own brands.

In 1920, we had two grocers and still did until we lost one because of well-deserved retirement.

I do not think the proposed site is easy to sell since it has limited possibilities so let common sense prevail and be thankful.

-D Jenny Allistone, Vicarage Lane, Rottingdean