We wish to protest against proposals to change the time honoured name of Bell End. Words change their meaning over time, and so do definitions of what is culturally acceptable. In the past this has led to the loss of many traditional place names simply because one vocal group or another finds them inappropriate, such as Piddletown and Snottingham. This has impoverished our island’s rich range of place names, and replaced them with bland expressions that lose all connection with their original meaning. And as fashions accelerate and meanings change ever more rapidly, giving in to demands for blander place names will lead to the irreversible loss of proud distinctive traditions across our island. If Bell End goes, what will become of Twatt, Shitterton, and Sandy Balls? These names belong to us all, and not just to those who live there.