MICHAEL J HURLEY, of Cholwells Court, Woolston, Kingsbridge, writes:

I am writing before the result of the referendum is known, indeed before voting has ­commenced.

I believe it is essential that, once the democratic decision of the electorate is known, we accept and proceed on that basis.

It is important, irrespective of what the decision is and how close the result is, that we accept that decision and endeavour to move ahead as a United Kingdom. Of course, there will be different views on how the decision can be ­implemented, whether staying or leaving, but what is essential is that the outcome is respected and accepted and that citizens of all parties, faiths and beliefs focus on making the outcome the positive wish of the people and refrain from continuing the arguments and recriminations.

Everyone appears agreed that this is a once-in-a-generation decision; therefore, once the decision is made, we should accept it and focus our energies on achieving the correct ­outcome for the whole country.

If we allow ourselves to wallow in bitterness and discord, the will of the majority will not be achieved easily and the eventual progress will be slow and painful. We live in a democracy, which means accepting the decision of the majority of citizens who are involved and vote.