Letters: Living museum

Is it not time that local opinions were listened to and that residents ceased to be dictated to by so-called "consultants" who, in general, do not live in Swaledale, have no idea of the needs of local people or, indeed , of local businesses, and seem to be intent solely in the strictest interpretation possible for the requirements on YDNPA to create designated conservation areas.

It is far more important for the communities in Swaledale (and Arkengarthdale) to receive support for their efforts to regenerate the local economy and provide extra facilities for improving quality of life for its people, as featured strongly in your article "Woman with a Mission" (January 18) and supported by readers' letters last week.

The programme outlined in the article, the admirable efforts of Carol Lewis and the continuing support work by many local people, could count for nothing if the present attitude of the YDNPA prevails - a policy which could lead to the area becoming a living museum as opposed to the thriving community which residents clearly want.

DEREK POLLARD

Beckstones,

Reeth.

Shabby approach

Sir, - It is getting increasingly depressing to drive into Northallerton on the A684 from the Bedale direction.

From the Warlaby crossroads, one passes an overgrown bus shelter (has anyone used this facility while awaiting a bus lately?); continuing past the unkempt and scruffy verges, one approaches a near derelict enamel sign which at present says ... ALLERTON.

Surely, strangers to this county town may be under the impression that they are nearing a down-at-heel conurbation where nobody cares about appearance or impressions given to all who happen this way.

Would it be too much to ask that this area be tidied up to give the feeling that one is approaching a town that is proud of its appearance and position as the county town of North Yorkshire.

An imposing town sign, perhaps in wrought iron or stone with a coat of arms, would be a good start, perhaps with a floral display. If South Otterington warrants this style of pronouncement, then Northallerton certainly should. The inhabitants await some early action.

COLIN COOPER

Oaktree Drive,

Northallerton.

Mast appeal

Sir,- We would like to thank Councillor John Coulson for speaking out at the meeting at Hambleton DC against the equipment that was to be added to the North Yorkshire police mast at Racecourse Lane, Northallerton, (D&S January 18).

We live directly in front of and behind the mast and it is an eyesore. A petition organised by ourselves and various letters of objection from other residents were sent to the planning department, and at the meeting Hambleton councillors rejected this planning application.

Mr Cann, head of development central at Hambleton commented (D&S December 28) "health issues are not a consideration and what was proposed was to be encouraged". Well perhaps Mr Cann, you would like this equipment placing 40-50 metres from your house.

We understand Orange Personal Communications has time to appeal against the decision, but we will fight on. May we take this opportunity to thank everyone who signed the petition and stood up for their rights and, even though told by Hambleton this application was recommended for approval, still took time to voice their concerns. It was well worth the effect.

SAMANTHA JOHNSTON, CAROL GARDNER

Northallerton

Too much to lose

Sir, - I see from Jill Neill's article (D&S, Jan 18) that the regional development agency is ending its support of the Two Dales Partnership's efforts to achieve a better future for Swaledale and Arkengarthdale. To this end, the partnership has employed, on a three-year contract, Mrs Lewis, a community worker.

Mrs Lewis has achieved so much during her first month's work that it bodes well for the completion of her plans to unlock the untapped potentials of the two dales.

Instead of celebrating this future eventuality, the regional government is to put an end to her enthusiastic work, thereby losing the considerable funding already obtained to support her during her three-year contract.

I hope that your paper will continue to interest itself in this matter, for there is too much to lose.

MONICA YOUNG

Reeth.

Shows crucial

Sir, - Nobody can be in any doubt that sheep shows in the Yorkshire Dales are of prime importance for the culture of the Dales, the social and economic well-being of Dales people and for the understanding and enjoyment of our area.

Yet for another year, dark clouds hang over many Dales shows large and small, such as Kilnsey, Gargrave, Tan Hill, Horton and Ribblehead. Though F&M is supposed to have gone, lingering regulations such as the 21-day rule will make it impossible to keep the full calendar of shows going this year.

If we allow this to happen it will be the end of the smaller shows. The effect of this on the community cannot be underestimated.

Could I ask for the influence of the D&S in helping us remove such regulations which may prevent the survival of this important aspect of the Dales heritage. We must fight for what is such a crucial part of Dales life.

As member of the national park authority (representing parishes) I have asked the chairman and chief executive of the authority to use their influence to help our sheep shows survive.

WILF FENTON

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Authority member,

Grassington