I HAVE attended every performance of Brownsea Open Air Theatre since it started in 1964, with the exception of one when I was in hospital – but including one when I was still recovering from a hip replacement and broken leg!

OVER the years, they have found such talented groups of performers all of whom have given great pleasure to many locals and visitors alike, and not forgetting the production teams.

Many of the audience members may not have visited Brownsea before but many I am sure many returned for a more leisurely visit. It is a great shame that the BOAT tradition has now finished.

My thanks go to the many performers and production teams over the years for giving so much pleasure and sometimes dramatic experiences!

Thanks also to the boat operators for all the trips in differing weathers and getting us safely there and back.

You will all be missed.

Brian Ford

Ringwood,