I’m a grandma missing her grandchildren

Since I am one of numerous grandmas who are missing their grandchildren in these bizarre times, my daughter sent me a delightful photo of my eldest grandson, which brought a smile to my face.

He had perched on the fence at the bottom of their garden for nearly an hour in total oblivion of all around him, and was enthralled watching two tractors muck spreading the field. It is lovely to know that children can shut themselves away from the worries of the world.

I also want to praise my daughter for the time and effort she is putting into home schooling the boys. She expertly combines structure and fun into each day with a timetable to follow daily. The boys are happy, they ring me and tell me what they have been learning. I think next Thursday when we clap for our excellent NHS, perhaps we should also applaud all the marvellous home-schooling parents. Well done!

Jane Garnett, Haxby

Our Jim will be smiling down on us for sure

My older brother Jim, who had dementia and was in a home near Houghton-le-Spring in County Durham, sadly died on the day lockdown started.

His two daughters could not be with him. When it came to his funeral instead of a good Methodist service only two could attend, with no music or hymns.

I asked my niece what hymns he would have had. At the time the service was due to start I sat and played them on my piano - In Heavenly Love Abiding and Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah - and then said a prayer for him. My sister, who lives on her own, did something similar and it helped us.

I am sure our Jim would be looking down with a big smile on his face.

Maureen Robinson, Broadway, York