Craven Herald Reader

John Fletcher supports extending 20mph speed limits, arguing that lower speeds reduce noise and stress and make communities feel more people-focused. Drawing on a recent visit to Wales, he says the benefits were noticeable and asks that Sutton-in-Craven be included in any expansion.

Robert Hall urges the council to make the replacement Tin Bridge in Skipton accessible to wheelchair users and people with wheeled walking aids. He says the recently upgraded Gallows Bridge missed a similar opportunity by retaining stairs, and proposes ramps at the Sackville Road and Lower Union Street ends, along with improved access to the canal towpath.

Angie Pedley welcomes Hellifield Flashes' designation as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation but argues that old planning permissions for development should be revoked. She calls for better preservation of the area and criticizes the site's unattractive, rusting fences and claims that its management has improved its appearance.

Mark Desgranges argues that students should not be penalised financially for pursuing higher education. Drawing on his experience of receiving a grant and studying without tuition fees in 1997, followed by paying £3,000 per year for a master’s degree in 2007, he says current fees of £9,000 per year and substantial debt could deter people from attending university. He supports a free higher-education model similar to that in Nordic countries.

A reader pays tribute to Dr Brian Fisher, a long-serving Skipton GP remembered for his deep commitment to patients and community‑based care. He is described as intelligent, dutiful and supportive of strong doctor‑patient relationships, contrasting his approach with modern short appointment practices. His passing is marked with sadness, though comfort is taken in the fact that he remained mentally active and did not endure a long illness.