CHIEF Superintendent David Short was understandably upset by Prince Andrew's comments about his uniform.

So were many others who felt neither Ch Supt Short's perfectly smart appearance, nor the way our police force chooses to spend its money, were suitable topics for royal comment.

We are pleased to learn the Duke has now written to Ch Supt Short to apologise. Suffice to say, the Duke of York will be welcomed back to North Yorkshire - even wearing a fleece, if he so chooses.

Updated: 10:16 Wednesday, May 26, 2004