Sir, - I would like to thank everyone who signed up in recent weeks in support of the proposed Walkers are Welcome accreditation for Teesdale.

Almost 600 people and several parish councils have now given their support. Many people were very enthusiastic about the scheme, which should bring visitors and business to the dale, as well as benefiting local people. The only concern to be repeated, and several times, was that of parking in Middleton in Teesdale.

One of the criteria for Walkers are Welcome is that visitors should be encouraged to come by public transport, and that will be top of our list of considerations in selecting the recommended routes.

The parking problem has been discussed locally, with ideas for providing more space.

To attempt to reduce the problem, I have contacted the local groups of the Ramblers' Association in the North Yorkshire and South Durham area, and also the secretaries of the adjacent areas of the Ramblers' Association, with a request that they spread the word to their local groups not to park in the centre of Middleton when they visit Teesdale.

I have also contacted the local branch of the Long Distance Walkers' Association, and Durham County Council. It's not a matter of blaming anyone, but of everyone trying to reduce the problem, which could also be helped by provision of extra parking spaces, which in itself presents a problem.

After all, walkers really do want to feel welcomed.

JO BIRD Stainton Village, Barnard Castle.