Readers' Letters: Tour of Britain 'adds to the prestige' of North Yorkshire

Readers’ Letters is a free weekly column giving you the chance to have your say on issues affecting the Harrogate district. It is an opinion column and does not reflect the views of the Stray Ferret. Send your views to letters@thestrayferret.co.uk.

The following letter was sent to us in response to comments made about the Tour of Britain in last week’s edition of Readers’ Letters.

I am appalled that only "negative" letters were printed about the Tour of Britain. My husband and I went to Boroughbridge to view this amazing cycling event. We were amazed at the number of people who had turned out to view these athletes. We later watched the event on TV and enjoyed and were proud to view the tremendous North Yorkshire countryside and supporters.

All of these athletes and their entourage had to stay in accommodation and eat in North Yorkshire properties — a source of income. Visitors —and there were plenty of them as seen on TV — enjoyed coffee, brunch and lunch in hospitality, another tourism boost.

Surely this event and its outcomes covered the £75,000 cost and made a profit and further adds to the prestige of North Yorkshire in hosting important athletic events?

Hillary Rose, Harrogate

Tourist tax cap 'makes no sense'

The follow comments were left on an article about Mayor David Skaith pledging to cap a tourist levy in North Yorkshire at 5%.

A fixed percentage makes no sense. As previously noted a two week family stay in mid-range hotel would be unaffordable for many whereas a long weekend in a rural location might be much more affordable. Yet another scheme not fully thought through.

Paul Reynolds

This is very bad news. A flat charge of £1/night for a family of four for 14 days is £56. But a 5% charge on say £100/night accommodation for four people for 14 days is £280 — a substantial sum, probably quite unaffordable to many people. A very bad idea.

Peter Horton

Do you have an opinion on the Harrogate district? Email us at letters@thestrayferret.co.uk. Please include your name and approximate location details. Limit your letters to 350 words. We reserve the right to edit letters.

If you enjoyed reading this article then please subscribe to read all our content. Subscription costs £4.99 a month or £49.99 if you pay annually.

That works out at less than a pound a week. You will also enjoy exclusive subscriber discounts. Click here to subscribe.