CLAIMS that Hexham's one way system is "sapping the life out of the town" generated quite a debate among Hexham Courant readers.

Comments on the Courant's Facebook page suggested that most people are unhappy with the system as it currently is.

Jennie Wright said: "A massive thank you to the Courant for supporting businesses and the public with this.

"This isn't about 'moaning' or fighting pedestrianisation, it's about a system that is not working for its purpose and pushing problems elsewhere in town.

"Hexham businesses were already COVID safe before these measures and will be without them."

Shirley Newton agreed, and added: "Time it was changed back to the way it was, and get rid of all those ridiculous ugly signs they are an eyesore, let’s give the small businesses a fighting chance, I think they have made themselves quite clear about how it is affecting them."

Dan Hawke said: "They just wanted an excuse to close it. They got one."

Stefan Yeatman added: "Central and local governments against Hexham."