Taking a stroll around York at 10am yesterday before the main ceremony and parade for the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, I was surprised to see the tour bus for York operating - although not busy - and a large number of people carrying designer brands of coffee or tea.

Walking down Gillygate/ Petergate and back around Goodramgate, as expected a few of the smaller eateries and pubs were plying their trade to the few people milling around.

I fully realise life goes on, with certain services - hospitals, police, fire and ambulance etc - permanently on call. But how could certain businesses take advantage of the lack of competition at this time, especially during such a sad time?

D M Deamer, Penleys Grove Street, Monkgate, York