LIKE countless others, I was shocked to hear of the planned closure of Terry's and can, from a rather unique standpoint, empathise with the people of York and, particularly, the firm's employees past and present.

While I was never employed by Terry's, I spent many hours working there in my capacity as a claims prevention inspector with British Rail.

During the late 1960s I visited the firm on many occasions in connection with rail-transit damage in container loads despatched via York Goods Station (now the NRM) to the firm's depots at Brighton, Belfast, Montrose and others.

During this period, I was always received in a friendly manner by staff in the distribution and the despatch departments, and also, on occasions, was allowed the privilege of visiting the packing departments. I remember, with affection, the "Neapolitan" ladies.

I doubt anyone during that era could have even imagined the current situation, and I sincerely hope that efforts being made to retain this business in York are successful.

At least I am now more appreciative of the records I kept of my happy involvement with this firm.

Charles Braithwaite,

Trinity Road,

Scarborough.

...IT was so sad to read in your paper about Terry's of York.

I left school at 14 and started work straight away at Terry's. I spent many years there until I was married, went straight back and stayed until I had my first baby.

I was so happy there. Dear Phil Spreadbury and Beattie Weaver were my charge-hands and we all got on so well. I was in the packing room and I loved every day I was there.

I do believe Phylis Spreadbury still lives on Bishopthorpe Road.

Margaret Case,

Barons Crescent,

Copmanthorpe,

York.

Updated: 11:32 Tuesday, May 04, 2004