AFTER reading Malcolm Warne's Eating Out report about Thirteen in Leyburn (D&S Times, July 3), I felt I must write a reply in defence of Giovanni's, the restaurant which used to occupy Thirteen’s premises.

On the many occasions when I and my late wife had a meal there, we never had a poor one. The staff and atmosphere were always very friendly. It was always very busy and one nearly always met somebody you knew. If you didn't want to dress up to go out, you only had to ring up with your order and were told it would be ready to collect in 15 to 20 minutes.

In no way I am decrying Thirteen, but a lot of people were sorry when Claire from Giovanni’s decided to hang up her apron, but we can understand her wanting to take a well earned rest from the years she has spent producing lovely food from that tiny kitchen.

Thanks, Claire – we miss Giovanni’s.

D Bradley, Leyburn.