THE concerns expressed by traders in Malvern Link about the perceived neglect of their area should certainly be listened to attentively.

Urban Malvern is rare for a town of its size in having three distinct shopping areas, the town centre itself, the Link and Barnards Green - not including the out-of-town retail park.

It is unsurprising that attention should be focused on the town centre, as it is the location of the Priory, Malvern Theatres, the library, several major hotels, and much else besides.

But the other areas should not be ignored and it is heartening that the Link’s traders are determined to raise their area’s profile, much as their fellow business people in Barnards Green have done with some success in recent years.

There can be no doubt that shopping by internet is having a serious effect on the nation’s high streets and shopping malls.

But as long as small independent shopkeepers are willing to ply their trade, they should be supported.

Congratulations are also in order to the local restaurants which have won the accolade of being named in the latest guide published by the AA.

Their place in the guide is surely deserved, but we should not forget the many other cafes, restaurants, pubs and other food outlets in and around the town, at all price levels, and offering many different styles of cuisine, which work tirelessly to please their customers.

Like the independent business people of the Link and elsewhere, they make a major contribution to Malvern’s fabric.