IN response to Billy Foster's letter "Going to the zoo" (February 2), I am rather bemused by his observations on Copmanthorpe's drinking culture, and his placing of my village at the bottom of a fictitious "desirable residential areas" list.

Undoubtedly Copmanthorpe has its fair share of individuals who, having consumed too much beer, can offend other people's sensibilities with their language and behaviour, as is the norm unfortunately.

Never once though have I felt threatened or intimidated walking around its streets at night.

Having lived in the village for nearly ten years and frequenting its hostelries on a regular basis, I have been blissfully unaware of any actions that could be deemed "zoological behaviour."

Copmanthorpe is a wonderful place to live with a fantastic community spirit enjoyed by young and old alike. I can only imagine the people who Mr Foster is referring to were on a night out from Dringhouses, presumably looking for somewhere with a bit more life.

Ray Cariss,

Barons Crescent,

Copmanthorpe,

York.

Updated: 10:32 Thursday, February 10, 2005