I USED to live in York and return as often as possible. I did so recently only to find Scotts Butchers closed and empty.

During our stay, we were shocked at the number of small shops that had closed and were empty, due to the recession and no apparent help from the city council, such as common sense with regard to traffic wardens. Also we noticed just how dirty the streets were, in particular dog dirt.

Another problem we encountered was the lack of places we could take the children into at lunch time. When we lived in York, my local was the King’s Head, where families were always welcome. We called in only to be told by bar staff that children and families were not welcome, but we could sit outside by the river if we wished.

York appears to be dying and lacks the atmosphere it used to have. We are due to return to live in York again soon and hope things have improved by then.

To end on a cheerful note, at least the best fish/chip shop in York is open again after the fire – good luck to them.

Carl Jordan, Tunstall, Stoke-On-Trent.

• MY RECENT trip to York will be my last. Sounds harsh, it is nothing to do with a lack of attractions (you are blessed with many). But: £5.10 of car parking – in a half-empty car park (should tell you something) brings only three hours, not enough time to visit the magnificent Minster, or walk the walls, have lunch etc. Certainly not enough to stay for a ghost walk. All of these things were missed.

40p to have a pee is taking the pee – quite literally.

Why no dogs on the wall? The birds are allowed on there, and frankly you could just have some doggy-do bags on posts by the entrance and a reminder to “pick it up”.

Why no dogs in the various pubs and eateries? After all his feet had only been on the same pavements as mine. In Germany he was allowed in everywhere – including cafés, pubs and restaurants.

No, as a visitor I was left feeling unwelcome and ripped off by some of these rules and charges.

You elect the councillors that charge so much and make the rules, try electing someone else or you will find the great tourist attraction devoid of customers.

Dave Hitchman, Lakenheath, Suffolk.