HAVING just attended a talk by Bridget Morris of the Rowntree Society, I think a chocolate museum would be a great idea for York.

The Rowntree family had a major impact on York, the UK and, indeed, world history. I’m particularly inspired by the philanthropy and ‘good works’ that were made possible by the financial success of the confectionery business.

Today, chocolate is a more or less ubiquitous substance, and it’s popularity should make an appropriately positioned museum a good visitor attraction. Once in the museum, the focus on the product would be diluted and improved by information about history and socio-geography, with the modern themes of international trade (fair and otherwise), health and work (from Seebohm’s study on poverty through to today’s obesity epidemic) and the ongoing roles of the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust and the Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust.

I propose a purpose-built, eco-friendly building in the York Central site, near the station and National Railway Museum. Wherever it is, it must be easily accessible by public transport and preferably close to the city centre.

John Cossham, Hull Road, York.