by Alex Ross and Olivia Metson

TOURISTS and traders have given their view on beggars in the city - after a councillor claimed they were making York look “scruffy and intimidating”.

Lib Dem Cllr Ashley Mason made the controversial comments during a City of York Council meeting on Monday where he pushed the police and officers on a solution.

He said begging in the city has increased and he has witnessed “five, six or seven” people asking passers-by for money on an evening.

The police told Cllr Mason the problem remained an issue because half the public are opposed to begging, but the other half support them.

That message seemed to be shared by tourists on the city’s streets yesterday.

Jean Rae, who was visiting the city from East Kilbride, said: “I feel sorry for the homeless in York; you never know their background.

“I always give £5 or £10 to them, especially during the festive season but also whilst I’ve been here visiting.”

Henry Burns, from Glasgow, added: “The decision to help depends on what they look like.

“Some you want to help but in a way it keeps them on the street by giving them money, as it could just be going to drugs and alcohol.

“I’ll buy them food like a sandwich or a hot drink if I’m passing and they look in need but I know at least then that’s something that will help.”

Martin Smith, from York, said the begging was “off-putting” and it is getting worse.

He added: “I’m generally not inclined to give them money though because most of the ones I see are either drunk or can’t speak properly, which being a local is off-putting enough, let alone tourists, yet nothing really seems to be done about it.”

And a city centre shop owner, who declined to be named, said beggars were affecting his trade.

He said: “Being a shop owner, you do realise how off-putting beggars are, especially the drinkers. It really impacts the business. They usually just sit outside shops drinking.

“It’s quite disturbing really. I’m paying rent to the council for my shop yet nothing seems to be being done about a problem that really does negatively affect my business.”