IN your article "Blueprint for the future of York" (June 3), Gillian Cruddas says she wants a five-star hotel for the rich - does she only want the rich?

You say York could become a playground for the over 55s. Where's the playground for them now? We have our own groups - we hire council property - but while there are harassed by the nine- and ten-year-olds, the over-55s of the future you are looking to help.

May I suggest you start by looking at giving them gainful things to do in their school holidays or York may find itself without any over-55s worth helping.

It is the 40-year-olds you need to get involved, if they are not to be left out as we are. York does nothing for its pensioners. We have to arrange our own social events.

The cost of going to the theatre is sometimes astronomical - £13 to watch amateurs and professionals £24 - with no concessions for us; and there's always the problem of how to get home afterwards.

I look forward to hearing more information on this subject.

A Spence,

Bramham Road, York.

Updated: 12:52 Saturday, June 07, 2003