WHAT an interesting read the Bury Times was on Friday, May 21. I read with interest the articles dealing with problems in local schools. As I continued I found myself becoming angrier and angrier.

I am a parent of two young children who are still in the early years of their education. Having had my own problems with aspects of their school, I now find it easier to just let them go to school and come home and just not get involved.

Living in Ramsbottom, I was most concerned to read about the reported problems at Woodhey High, which my children will eventually attend. I feel extremely sorry for the deputy head who failed to secure the vacant post of head and wonder why loyalty is never considered in this day and age.

I then read about Bury CE school and its problems with pupils and their end-of-term pranks. I was concerned about the letter from V. Taylor regarding the stabbing incident which seemed to have been brushed under the carpet. That incident seemed far more important than problems with maggots and cockroaches!

I was becoming really annoyed by the time I read the article headlined "Play to be given the OK". I have been saying for years that school playing fields would be ideal for children to play on, a place where they can be seen and would be safe. I have written numerous letters to people in "'grand" positions, only to be fobbed off with various excuses.

I therefore find it both amusing and insulting that the chief education officer is now saying that it is a very commendable idea. When will the hierarchy start to listen to the people who really are concerned for the welfare of children today.

REALLY ANNOYED PARENT,

Ramsbottom.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.