I was sorry to read your rather harsh account concerning the imminent closure of Dresden House (The Argus, January 14).

I have been a fortnightly visitor there, with my Pets As Therapy-registered dogs, since 1991.

During these 15 years, I have been impressed and heartened by the respect, kindness and courtesy given to the female residents and to me, as a volunteer, by the managerial and general staff.

Many times, I have heard how appreciative the residents are of living in a spacious, elegant, clean and well-maintained home.

I have every sympathy now they find themselves in the unacceptable situation of having to adjust to life elsewhere. But, knowing Dresden House so well, I am sure the decision to close it was not taken lightly and will have caused distress to those who made it - not least the staff, who will have to look for re-employment.

I shall miss my visits to Dresden House and will remember it with great affection.

-Robina Williams, Hove