Sir, – We have just published a book called Home Comforts about the role of First World War Red Cross auxiliary hospitals in the North Riding which pays tribute to the many people in the county that not only cared for wounded and sick soldiers in the Great War but also provided comforts and fundraised for these comforts and for the 32 hospitals. County Hall in Northallerton was one of the hospitals and stately homes such as Crathorne Hall, as well as village halls, schools and the workhouse in Middlesbrough. We think they would make very good Christmas presents. Books costing £7 are available from North Yorkshire County Council records office, telephone 01609-777585 or email archives@northyorks.gov.uk

Anne Wall and Eileen Brereton,

Northallerton.