MR LAVERACK’S comments in respect of the civic number plate are interesting, but overlook a fundamental point (Letters, August 2).

The gift of the “DN 1” number to York was by way of reversionary trust, that is to say, should the city cease to use it appropriately, the gift reverts to the settler’s estate, i.e. the donor’s family or friends.

Public services in York are very important but, quite simply, they cannot be funded from a sale such as this.

Richard Watson (Sheriff of York 2010/11), York Road, Haxby, York.