'When you’ve lived elsewhere you truly appreciate York'

Having lived in Plymouth, Inverkip and near Merthyr, I can honestly say that York on Halloween is unique.

While enjoying our usual Saturday teatime drinks with friends outside the Blue Bell, the atmosphere was fantastic.

A slight mist drifted through the streets, adding perfectly to the Halloween mood.

Everywhere you looked there were people in costume, from ghosts and ghouls to even Donald Trump.

A few small dogs dressed as bats brought plenty of smiles too.

The city was buzzing with visitors, and the ghost walks were packed.

Historic pubs such as the Red Lion and the Snickleway Inn were decorated, adding to the magic of the evening.

It was a brilliant Halloween and a timely reminder of why York remains such a special place.

Sometimes it takes living elsewhere to make you appreciate what you have at home.

John Jones

Russet House

Birch Close

York

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Licence to thrill

The annual TV licence is good value for money. On the radio there are many stations. I listen to Radio 4 and the World Service.

The news is more reliable than any media outlet I can think of, with the exception of a couple of newspapers.

But there are also documentaries, drama, arts and so on.

Then there is iPlayer which has numerous categories - drama and series, documentaries, music, history, film, archives and more.

What about the podcasts?

I’d rather spend a bit extra on all this and, if necessary, drink a few less cups of coffee.

Rose Berl

De Little Court

Vine Street

York

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Sheds for rough sleepers

It’s good to see that City of York Council is acting on the Prime Minister’s pledge to provide accommodation for people sleeping on the streets during these winter months.

The one-person sheds being erected in Parliament Street, York (the Christmas Market sheds) look spot on for the homeless, although I presume that some of the rough sleepers would have preferred a little more privacy.

PS, I wonder if any of the sheds are ‘affordable homes’.

D M Deamer

Penleys Grove Street

Monkgate

York

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Changing with the wind

Those in the Caribbean seeking reparation for deeds enacted over 300 years ago should take heart.

In his short time as PM, Andy Burnham has quickly developed a reputation for changing his mind depending on which way the wind is blowing.

Today he has said no to financial compensation, tomorrow if pushed could easily take a different view.

How much longer are ridiculous opinions from the ‘woke’ brigade going to influence everyday life, their latest edict being grandparents should seek permission to hug grandchildren... absolutely stupid!

Peter Rickaby

Moat Way

Brayton

North Yorkshire

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