Sir, – Having read your article regarding the Bruce Arms at West Tanfield, I decided to arrange a visit for lunch this week.

I spoke (via phone to a pleasant sounding lady) and asked if there was a need to book for lunch. She replied and said that a booking was not necessary during the week. I then stated that we would visit on Wednesday or Thursday this week. In due course, we travelled the 34 miles from Stokesley to West Tanfield yesterday, Wednesday, September 3, but on arrival found that the establishment was closed. Having already looked up the Bruce Arms website which said that lunch was served from noon to 3pm Tuesday to Saturday, I was extremely upset at the situation that had arisen.

My wife and I were very disappointed at this disgraceful situation. I have tried twice to contact the Bruce Arms by phone but the answer machine was on.

Because we were both hungry we crossed over to a nearby establishment, the Bull Inn, where a member of staff stated that sometimes the Bruce Arms does not always open during the day midweek and occasionally is sometimes closed on Sundays.

It is to be hoped that the D&ST do not send their anonymous menu tasters in the future because it may not be open!

R PADGET

Stokesley.