Sir, - David Butterworth, the new chief executive of the Yorkshire Dales national park, may dispute Spectator's description of residents in the park as "subjects", (D&S letters, Nov 3) but the facts suggest otherwise.

Recently BT put in a planning application for renewal of its telephone system in upper Swaledale (the underground wires are, apparently, corroding). They were proposing using an alternative radio-based system on the grounds of cost but, for whatever reasons, the information before the committee was insufficient to make an informed decision. Accordingly Coun John Blackie proposed deferment pending receipt of more information.

This eminently sensible and practical approach was countered by an amended proposal, put forward by a Secretary of State appointee, that the application be summarily refused. A case of say 'no' first and find out why second! The amendment was carried.

Hopefully BT will not be discouraged from coming back with a more acceptable and detailed application. On the other hand they might just decide to put the proposal at the bottom of the action pile and move on to other projects where their efforts are appreciated. In the meantime Swaledale residents are left with a decaying and unreliable telephone system.

The majority of members who voted no do not live or work in the park. They can return to their homes safe in the knowledge that they will not be affected by the decision. No doubt they will reassure themselves that they have "acted in the national interest" (whatever that means).

We, as residents, have no say in the appointment of these member nor, more importantly, any means of removing them. They have the power to make decisions that affect our lives, are unaccountable and do not have to bear the consequences.

This is what makes us "subjects".

ANDY MONK

West End,

Askrigg.

Tastefully restored

Sir, - The Holiday Property Bond deserves congratulations for its Lodge Yard development in Askrigg, which has won the regeneration category of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors' premier award.

This discreet and tasteful scheme has proved to be a significant asset to the village during the few months of its existence.

It provides employment for local people, and has contributed to the economy of the village and wider area. The accompanying renovation of the Kings Arms hotel has had a similar impact, preserving the bar and restaurant facilities for local people and visitors alike.

The national park and other planning groups, who are so often subject to criticism, should also be applauded for their sound judgment in granting approval to this scheme.

This was in the face of opposition from a small, vocal, but wholly unrepresentative group which exploited both local and national media opportunities to raise anxiety in the village.

The predicted traffic problems have not arisen, the unobtrusive location and sympathetic design has enhanced rather than detracted from the area, and the Holiday Property Bond management has developed excellent relationships with neighbours and the wider community.

Lodge Yard has been transformed from a centuries-old collection of deteriorating dales buildings, into an attractive, dynamic, resource, enhancing the social and economic well-being of our village.

SUSAN PARKES & DAVID FIRTH

Main Street,

Askrigg.

Angry angler

Sir, - The government's support for Labour's Charter for Anglers is a fairy tale. It proposes to savage the grant in aid to the Environment Agency's fisheries functions in England by 33pc at a time when needs justify an increase.

Representations were supported by the Fisheries Minister, Elliott Morley, and 120 MPs from all parties, but the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries & Food, an obdurate Nick Brown, has refused to restore the cut, another example of his disasters in the countryside.

The same government cheerfully agreed a grant in aid of £19.9m to two opera companies, yet is willing to provide only £3.2m for all the fisheries in England. The Environment Agency, which would appear to need £14m to carry on this work, will become a lame duck.

Over 3.9m anglers will know where to place their vote in the forthcoming election.

R C DALES

Church View,

Brompton,

Northallerton.

More Letters to the Editor on page 2