Sir, – I noted your lead letter entitled "Opportunity for libraries" (D&S Jan 2) with interest, and read on.

Paragraph after paragraph extolled the virtues and resultant benefits following the closure of one of the writer's local libraries. A flood of volunteers, able and willing to cover all aspects of running the library – making new friends, relieving loneliness and isolation among the elderly, brave new plans for the future.

No mention, however, of the financial burden, which in Stokesley would be substantial.

I read to the end and lo and behold who was the writer – Cllr David Jeffels, vice-chairman, North Yorkshire County Council.

In the immortal words of an infamous lady recently deceased "Well, he would say that, wouldn't he!"

LIZ CROSSKILL

Stokesley.