Sir, – I refer to the letter "In good health", D&S Times, September 5.

I am of the opinion that Cllr Stuart Parsons must have been wearing dark glasses on the day he checked out the cafes, charity shops etc in Richmond.

He reports Richmond as offering a "strong retail mix." He lists what is on offer in the Market Place alone, (too long to list again). Whilst I do agree with him as to some of the shops he has listed around the Market Place, this does not make Richmond an amazing market town to shop.

For instance, where is there a "shoe shop?" One that would sell good quality stylish shoes – there isn't. Yes, you can purchase a pair of shoes from the Edinburgh Woollen shop but they are for ladies or gents of perhaps, a more mature age than myself. I like many others are not ready for the Velcro/lace fastening type of shoe.I know that in time, I will no doubt come to that type of shoe – no offence to Edinburgh Woollens.

Where could I buy a quality outfit – again I couldn't.

There used to be decent hardwear shops, ie Husbands and Spence & Co – Richmond used to have Hodgsons where you could buy ladies and gents outfits, sheets, blankets, towels etc. Also John Raper for ladies clothes and shoes for men and women. Obviously, no business person thinks Richmond is vibrant enough.

Where is there any shop to buy a wedding present of some quality?

I don't know where the vibrant town comes in. He says that the Station is a stupendous addition to the town. I don't know, I have never patronised it on principal. When I am shopping in Richmond I prefer to take my custom to the butchers and bakers that have served the residents of Richmond and the surrounding areas for years despite the high rents and business rates that they have to pay.

The only hotel of any size in the Market Place does not have a lift for use of any disabled person to get to the dining room or bedrooms. What use is that?

Such places as the castle, the museums, art galleries, the Georgian Theatre Royal do not help people who prefer to do their shopping while in the town, or should I say "this amazing town."

Oh, another thought, there is not to the best of my knowledge an electrical/television supplier or a children's clothing shop.

So, isn't that amazing? Have I filled in any of those holes?

ANTHEA E RAWLING,

Scorton, Richmond.