Tradesman needs Council help

SIR - I am writing to express my displeasure at the attitude of Bradford Council regarding a proposed £5,000 bill to Darren Todd, a Bingley businessman.

This is for lifting a 70-odd year covenant which disallows the selling of alcohol at a new delicatessen he has recently opened.

Instead of making such an excessive demand, the Council should be grateful to him for trying to stimulate some life in Bingley.

I would suggest the Council has a re-think and give Darren and other prospective tradespeople some encouragement instead of putting stumbling-blocks in their way.

Jack Whitaker, Ryshworth Crescent, Bingley.

Help Darren

SIR - Re your report about Mr Darren Todd, I think he should be highly complimented and praised for his efforts to make Bingley a better place as since Bradford Council took over, Bingley has deteriorated rapidly and the number of empty shops is an utter disgrace.

Young men like Darren should be encouraged to make business a success so the Council should make an effort to help him to keep his shop open, for customers really enjoy shopping at all his shops.

Roland Wilson, Mornington Road, Bingley.