THE squire of a market town has expressed concern that an extensive traffic scheme will ruin the look of the area.

Lord Feversham, chairman of Helmsley Town Council, said a traffic management scheme planned for the tourist spot will have a damaging effect.

He said: "There is a real danger of ruining the town's appearance."

Councillors have been told that an annual sum of £100,000 is being earmarked to create schemes to cope with the increasing amount of tourist traffic, including a puffin crossing near the castle, a crossing at Buckingham Square, another at Ashdale Road, and near the parish church. In addition, new signs are planned and changes to parking.

"A crossing near the church would look awful," said Lord Feversham. "Has anyone given any thought as to the appearance of signs and poles in the town centre?"

Now, an exhibition is to be staged in the Town Hall where the public will have a chance to air their views before North Yorkshire County Council makes a decision.