As the new owner of the Grade II listed barn in Whitcombe I have every sympathy with your anonymous correspondent (Tithe barn should be preserved', Letters, June 9).

My wife and I acquired the barn at the end of last year with the aim of restoring it as soon as possible.

A structural survey revealed that as well as the thatch, much more serious and deliberate damage had been inflicted on the barn, which threatened the stability of the walls as well and the entire roof structure.

Nevertheless, a team of specialist contractors was assembled, with the intention of starting work in April.

A bat survey (an obligation inherited from the previous owner and predictably ignored) revealed the possible presence of bats and we were advised that nothing could be done until September.

A second bat survey has revealed that this was a false alarm and the work could have started after all, but a Kestrel has since moved in and nested.

As it is illegal to disturb nesting birds, nothing much can happen until August.

I would like assure all life-long Dorset residents that work will start at the earliest opportunity - although given the way this project has gone, I am concerned a great crested newt might make a sudden appearance.

Alec Walters, Whitcombe Manor, Whitcombe.