Like Hamish Cameron (Letters, September 28), I share concerns over the closure of seven of Scottish youth hostels. A life member, I have just received my autumn/winter copy of The Scottish Hosteller from SYHA but there was no mention of closures.

I have recently visited a hostel at Wooler in England which the English association wanted to close. The local community recognised the economic benefits to the area and decided to negotiate the running of the hostel themselves under the umbrella of the Youth Hostel Association. This may be an option for the hostels here.

SYHA plays a vital role in our tourist industry and allows many who otherwise could not afford a holiday to enjoy our great outdoors.

Catriona C Clark, 52 Hawthorn Drive, Banknock, Falkirk.