Sir, – Like many others, a return from a European holiday causes me to compare aspects of life and ways of living.

This time the stark contrast in the high levels of litter/rubbish frequently seen around the streets and alleyways of Northallerton, compared with the Dolomite area of Italy. Lack of local street cleaning resources will no doubt play a part.

However, the overwhelming view is a lack of civic pride and respect by many individuals, retail and fast food outlets.

Their lack of responsibility for external shop areas, footpaths, and footpaths linked to the High Street in particular are clear. A negative image for other local people and the visitors Northallerton looks to attract.

There seems little hope of change while we increasingly live in the ‘broken window’ society.

C M WILKIE Thornton le Moor, Northallerton.