IN the past year we have reviewed 44 snack spots. Some were real gems. Some, well...!

We visited a number of venues outside York. Some readers thought this may have been a direct result of the increased parking charges in the city. Not so.

Without a doubt, if you are visiting the east coast both Scarborough and Whitby have something to offer.

We were delighted by the old world charm of Bothams in Skinner Street, Whitby. From coffee to afternoon tea, this cafe should satisfy all tastes and wallets. However at lunchtime it tends to be busy.

Bonnetts in Huntriss Row, Scarborough, was equally good. But beware it tends to close before 'high tea' time.

Three villages nearer York also pleased us. D'Oyly's in Bolton Percy provided us with an excellent country tea. We understand this small spot, with adequate off -street parking now offers evening meals, provided they are booked.

The Mouseman of Kilburn also provided us with good food in its new visitors' centre, although service was slow. A recent report suggests that this is still the case although our reader agreed the food was worth the wait.

For an outing combining a snack that is a little bit special we have no hesitation in recommending the Corner Cupboard at Birdforth. Ann and I were there for lunch. Although our two course meal cost £18 which was well above our budget (£13.50), the menu indicated that with care you could snack well below that price.

The Designer Centre provides plenty of choice in the food hall but we felt that the relative quiet and pleasant surroundings in Thorntons caf was a winner. An added bonus is a free chocolate with your order.

And finally in the York area we were very impressed with Cafe 71 in Acomb. Surprisingly no readers have let us know what they think about this venue situated upstairs adjacent to a busy hairdresser.

Sadly what we thought was the gem of the year, the Blacksmith's Tearoom at Huggett, has closed, not just for the winter but permanently. So if you are heading in that direction, beware.

We are always happy to respond to your suggestions about venues that have changed hands or recently opened and thank those of you who have written to us during the year.

Updated: 08:36 Saturday, January 08, 2005