Sir, – Last week you reported on the re-opening of Philip Hall’s department store in Ripon as an indoor market.

The proprietor, Mr Blackburn, was interviewed and it was mentioned that Ripon Town Council “voiced strong support” for the scheme, as did the former mayor of Ripon, Mr Mick Stanley. Wonderful praise and free advertising indeed.

Is this advertising a service the D&ST will be offering to any other businesses in the area?

As the owner of an electrical contracting company that lost around £1000 when Mr Blackburn’s previous company operating on the same premises went bust, I feel that I must surely be due some support in order to try and regain my losses. Perhaps the members of Ripon Town Council would like to write to my members of staff explaining why they cannot have a pay rise this year, or to the other companies that have been left in a similar position?

If anyone thinks this all sounds like a case of sour grapes, well maybe they can give me £1,000 and they can see how it feels.

In business at the moment, or at any time, there is an element of risk and exposure involved. I do not, however, expect to have my nose rubbed in it and two fingers stuck up at me by the D&S and Ripon Town Council.

ANDREW TURNER

Sowerby, Thirsk.