OUR family often frequent the pubs in the centre of York - for birthdays, anniversaries, days with a "y" in them - and enjoy a few bevvies and perhaps a meal. We have done this for years.

Usually we find ourselves in the Three Cranes or the Anglers "always has been, always will be" Arms aka The Snickleway - but my dad won't have it.

Last night we settled in the Old White Swan. My dad was very disappointed that he could not have his second pint of cask in the same glass due to "health and safety regulations", and felt that his freedom of choice had been taken from him, but decided not to make a fuss as the lad behind the bar was most apologetic.

We enjoyed a lovely meal and, as usual, we left a little something for me to take home to my cats. When we asked the lad to have it wrapped up, he said he would if we would sign a form to say we would eat it within a certain time.

We guffawed and the lad turned away feeling embarrassed.

Come on, a disclaimer for a doggy bag? We've heard it all now.

Fran Nelson,

Danebury Drive,

Acomb,

York.

Updated: 10:31 Friday, November 04, 2005