THE age-old Ryedale village of Whitwell-on-the-Hill is renowned for its steep hill on the busy A64 York to Scarborough road.

But anyone making their way to the pretty cluster of cottages can only asume they have arrived because it has no name plate.

The matter has now been brought to the parish council's attention and is under investigation.

Chairman Christopher Gillam says: "For some reason we have never had a name sign."

The parish council which also covers the village of Crambe, is now likely to get the views of villagers, and also their opinions on a suggestion that Whitwell should have a 'village statement' - a blueprint for its long term future.

In recent years it has lost its post office, school shop and petrol station, and has no village hall. Community life focuses around the picture-postcard village church, said Mr Gillam.

"We want to retain Whitwell's character and environment," he said.

"It will be up to the villagers to decide what they want to see in the village in the future." The appraisal is likely to also focus on controlling housing development. "We have seen very little in Whitwell over the years, mainly refurbishment of properties" said Mr Gillam.

Updated: 11:04 Thursday, November 01, 2001