I RECENTLY spent a very enjoyable week in York. Only one thing marred my enjoyment.

I was saddened by K S Chapman's letter (June 28). He was delighted at the charge now made for entry to the Minster, referring to previous "free look" visitors as fourth-rate day-trippers, and hoping now for a "better calibre of paying visitors".

That statement was insulting and offensive. Even "fourth-rate day-trippers" (and there is no shame in being poor) rarely return home without buying an ice cream or cup of tea or coffee, which all helps to swell the coffers of places such as York.

I was also aggrieved when visiting the Minster to be greeted by posters declaring the "suggested donation" fee. There did not seem to be provision for making a smaller donation and to have extra charges for visiting other areas for photography all seemed to be a bit much.

Call me mean, but I did spend almost £20 in the Minster gift shop, and, all told, several hundred more in your fair city.

Perhaps K S Chapman would like to man the Bars of York, and ask we lowly tourists for a wage slip as proof of eligibility to enter your lovely city.

Mrs C Hunter,

Auchroisk,

Mulben,

Keith, Banffshire.

Updated: 11:28 Saturday, July 19, 2003