I READ Spectator’s Notes (D&S Times, Jan 20) with interest and in particular John Coulson’s suggestion that the ancient vine on the front of the old Rutson Hospital in Northallerton should be protected by a tree preservation order. Quite right too!

The story goes that Hugh Smithson, who was born in Northallerton (see the blue plaque at the High Street end of Barkers arcade) and became the first Duke of Northumberland in 1766, was travelling through his birthplace in 1775 and saw the vine was damaged. He immediately sent his head gardener from Alnwick Castle to tend to the vine which subsequently flourished.

As it has survived for so many years, perhaps the present Duke of Northumberland, or his green-fingered wife, might like to become involved in its preservation.

Libby Harding, Leeming