Sir, – Richmond is delightful town, but does lack some basic amenities such as public toilets. Does it want shoppers and visitors to enjoy the history and spend their money, because if so it needs to make sure there are facilities. If you have travelled a distance by car, local bus, or coach, you are likely to need to use a toilet. If you are elderly, or infirm that need could be more vital. This is in my opinion not the best way to warmly welcome anybody.

Last Tuesday I went to Richmond for a 5pm appointment. We called at several shops beforehand, and about 4.30, I wanted to go the toilet, so went towards the market hall, owned by Richmond Town Council, where I had been the previous Friday, only to find it closed. I went to the public toilets in Victoria Road, by the old tourist information office to check that they had closed, and found the sign boards had been taken down, and no reference to other public toilets. The only other area I knew was down the steep hill to the river car park – a long walk in the dark.

I am told by Richmondshire District Council that the nearest public toilets are at Nuns' Close, but there was no sign indicating these.

Not all shops or cafes welcome people who are not their customers. I did not want a drink, and had not the time to sit in a cafe before my appointment.

I suggest that the penny pinching powers that be in the Richmond ensure facilities are provided, as in Kendal. When the local authority had to save money the council was proactive, and contacted shops, cafes, and an arts centre, and paid them money to cover extra cleaning. The council now provides a map available from the tourist office containing 13 locations, and an indoor car park, who welcome people in to use their toilets free of charge. No doubt these premises will on occasions gain business from these users. What a different attitude – and welcome.

KATE EMPSALL

Askrigg, Leyburn.