IT WAS with amazement that I read D Wardell’s letter of November 13 regarding Bishopthorpe Road traders, stating that the road is a shadow of what it once was.

Bishopthorpe Road is host to a great variety of shops and businesses, with a brilliant sense of community spirit. From fruit and veg, family butchers, bakers, local chemist, superb pub, florist, beauticians and hairdresser, hardware, children’s shoe shop, dry cleaners, card and gift shop and several truly cosmopolitan places to eat, drink and socialise... I think that speaks for itself.

In addition, the businesses and traders fully engage with local people and community groups. They regularly donate and support local fundraising, community groups and the local residents associations.

Their contribution to York’s hosting of the Tour de France was exceptional, as shown by the thousands of people who stayed long after the event.

I am proud to live just off Bishopthorpe Road and proud to part of the community which includes Bishopthorpe Road, and all these shops deserve credit as a great example of why shopping local is valuable to everyone.

Cllr Julie Gunnell, Micklegate ward, City of York Council.