Sir, – It was interesting to read of Richmondshire District Council’s strategy board decision not to support Welcome to Yorkshire, the county’s official tourism body.

As chairman of the Herriot Country Tourism Group representing 140 businesses, many of which are located in Richmondshire, both myself and the members recognise the need for a strong and successful organisation to promote Yorkshire at both local, regional, national and international level.

Just look at the present decline in the tourism industry in the North East, with no one body promoting that region.

Yes, Welcome to Yorkshire is supported by the private sector, but the public sector also needs to play its part in keeping Yorkshire on the map and supporting the team at Welcome to Yorkshire in the work they do to stimulate the visitor economy in Richmondshire and Yorkshire.

We recognise finances are tight in local authorities and cutbacks have to be made.

However, I do feel Richmondshire’s decision is some what short-sighted with tourism being such an integral part of the district’s income generation and employment.

I just hope that Richmondshire and Ms Loughlin get a good rate of investment and the monies spent represent good value for money for Richmondshire Council.

IAN ASHTON Chairman, Herriot Country Tourism Group.