IF Christopher Wardell feels he is being haunted by a horse each time he visits the covered market in Darlington (HAS, Oct 24), it is easy to see why – 100 years ago horses were the main means of transport, both for people and goods and 200 years ago they were the sole means of transport. An important market town like Darlington would have been chock-a-block with them.

It’s true enough that the past is all around us, and old buildings can be an effective means of tuning in to bygone generations.

Look especially at the upper storeys, mainly their external features, because you’ll find that’s where the handiwork of long-dead craftsmen and architects is best preserved.

It’s as well to do so, because a vivid sense of the past strengthens our own health – socially, morally and mentally.

That’s why we should cherish old buildings, and, of course, old values and traditions.

Tony Kelly, Crook, Co Durham.