THERE have been several stories in the Echo in recent weeks stating that Weymouth has topped polls in a series of nationwide surveys for the quality of its beaches, lifestyle and appeal to people looking for a place to retire.

But a look at the comments on these stories can make depressing reading as a series of anonymous ‘critics’ seek to spread doom and gloom over everything.

Of course, Weymouth has its problems, not least low wages and a lack of opportunities for the young. But if people worked to accentuate the positives and work with the people trying to make a difference maybe they could help left the gloom. Or perhaps they are only happy hiding behind the keyboard bashing out bile to give them a sense of self worth they undoubtedly lack in the real world?

Joan Margertson

Weymouth