A NORTH Yorkshire couple got a shock when they received a hoax letter stating they had been chosen to house a homeless Asian family of five.

Betty and Alan Bloxham, of Swainsea Drive, Pickering, were "disgusted" by the letter, which claims to be from the Homeless Asians Association, acting on behalf of Ryedale District Council.

They believe the single page, printed letter may have been sent by a right-wing group intent on stirring up racial problems.

It describes, in racist and offensive language, the needs of the family and action that needs to be taken to prepare for them.

The retired couple, who moved to Pickering ten years ago, have no idea why they received the letter.

"I have got a pretty good sense of humour but this is too much," said Betty, 67.

"My concern is if they sent this to a frail or elderly person, who perhaps lives alone, they could find this very upsetting.

"It is not just a wind-up, there seems to be a serious side to it as well."

Alan, 69, a former warehouse and transport manager, believes the letter may have been sent by a right-wing organisation.

"It looks like they are trying to stir up racial problems," he said.

"I was almost tempted to throw it in the bin because that is where it should be.

"I would recommend that anyone else who receives the letter should do so straight away."

A spokesman for Ryedale District Council said they had not received any complaints about hoax letters.

"It is the first time we have heard of such a letter and it is obviously nothing to do with us.

"We are very sorry to hear that Mrs Bloxham has been worried in this way," he said.

In August of last year a council tenant in Preston received a similar letter, also from the Homeless Asians Society, although West Lancashire District Council did not receive any other complaints.

Updated: 08:31 Friday, August 31, 2001