FOR a city wishing to encourage visitors and its residents, City of York Council has again shot itself in the foot.

I live in Dunnington and often go into the city. During the day I use the Park & Ride and, being over 65, get it cheaper. In the evening, however, if I want to go to the cinema, York Theatre Royal or to an evening class, I use the Bootham Row car park as on-street parking is forbidden even at night.

I do not want to walk half a mile after 10pm to catch a bus, and the P&R has stopped; so why should I have to pay through the nose for late parking?

Many older people are on reduced incomes and tend to be less mobile, so having a car keeps them in society.

I know the city council thinks that older car owners should stay away, unless they are rich and are able to swell the city coffers. We do in fact contribute a lot through our ever-increasing council tax.

The Older People's Forum and the Older People's Assembly, of which I am a member, have arranged an open meeting with Hugh Bayley MP at Central Methodist Hall in St Saviourgate between 1pm and 3pm on Friday February 27.

This is primarily to discuss council tax and pensions but I suggest that if the event is well attended and you also let your councillors know your views, there may be a rethink.

John R Yates,

Thorn Croft, Dunnington, York.

...WE are opposed to the new parking charges because as a club we meet at St Lawrence Church Hall on Lawrence Street every Thursday and most members park on Lawrence Street.

The parking behind the church is restricted and dimly lit and I do not wish to walk round there in the dark at 9.30pm after meetings.

There is also the risk of vandalism when the cars are not on view.

Members may be put off visiting the club or new members from joining if they have to pay nearly an additional £3 per week to park for two hours. These parking charges are going to cause a lot of clubs and evening activities to close.

We have about 30 members. Those who can cycle, but it is not feasible for most members to travel on the buses as a lot of members come from villages where there are no bus routes.

Judith Ness,

Secretary, York Camera Club,

Tatton Close,

York.

Updated: 10:14 Tuesday, February 24, 2004