Travellers Rest IN response to David Wilkinson (no relation to my husband Dave Wilkinson) and his letter “Pub dreams” (D&S Times letters, Mar 26). I was saddened to read the views of Mr Wilkinson regarding the anticipated reopening of the much missed Travellers Rest in Skeeby. Unlike him I do not consider Skeeby as my village, more our village and as such am hoping that Skeeby Community Pub Society (SCPS) are able to successfully negotiate a mutually acceptable deal with the current owner and bring back a valuable community asset which will offer the residents of Skeeby and its visitors a place in which to “sample local food and drink enjoy a feeling of relaxation, companionship and community togetherness” and potentially so much more.
High Street trees I READ with great sadness of the decision by Hambleton District Council to decide against planting trees in Northallerton High Street and use planters instead due to opposition from the Showman’s Guild. “Protest as tree plans changed for planters” (D&S Times, Feb 19). Northallerton High Street like many other high streets around the country will have to evolve from mainly retail to a blend of retail, hospitality and residential if it is to survive. The addition of an attractive public space in the centre of the town would be a key part in this, encouraging visitors to the town which would in turn reap its own financial benefit for businesses on the High Street as well as providing an attractive multipurpose venue to host outdoor events such as music, live theatre or a host of other community events.
Heating example I READ last week “School heating debate hears call to consider alternative fuel source” (D&S Times, Dec 11) that North Yorkshire County Council are considering whether they should replace ancient gas boilers in 34 of the county schools with heat pumps. This is a wonderful opportunity for the council to demonstrate to the school pupils that they care for the environmental future. I can assure Jon Holden, head of property services, that this is a well tried and effective technology. It works well if the buildings are very well insulated and the system has a good quality thermostatic controller.