POLICE are investigating threats and anonymous letters sent to people who have called for a ban on quarry wagons in Settle.

The opponents of quarry wagons say their opinions are being shouted down and a campaign of intimidation is threatening the workings of local democracy.

The Craven Herald has been presented with a copy of a letter sent to one Settle couple after a picture appeared in the Yorkshire Post showing them at last week's protest march.

While not threatening violence, the couple say it is unnerving and sinister. They have passed the original to the police.

The letter accuses them of being "offcumdens" and concludes:

"The best thing you could do is to move back together with your entourage of protesters to where you came from using a one way ticket. These are obtainable from you sic local quarry or haulage company. It is also advisable to bring your passport with you, enabling the authorities to stamp it 'Do not return to Settle'".

It is not the first time allegations of intimidation have been used against those who criticise the presence of quarries in the area.

Comedy entertainer Mike Harding, who used to live in Langcliffe, was threatened with a bomb when he said quarries were scarring the Dales and had to be given police protection when he switched on the Christmas lights at Settle.

Among other incidents alleged to have happened are:

o A car belonging to a protestor was vandalised hours before a protest meeting - cars parked alongside were untouched.

o Rev James Richardson was verbally abused by a customer in the bar of the Royal Oak in Settle while attending Rotary after his 1,000 signature petition calling for quarries to be banned from the town centre was completed.

The protestors also claim a public meeting in the Victoria Hall to discuss the situation was hi-jacked and the mostly elderly audience intimidated.

Inspector Tad Nowakowski, of Skipton Police, said he would like to identify the person responsible for sending the letters.

"It is uncomfortable and unnerving for the recipients and I am keen to bring this to a close," said Insp Nowakowski. "This is a small community and these things do cause upset. People have a right to have opinions without feeling intimidated."