AS parents with a son attending St Peter's School in York, we express our support for the school's proposal to "extinguish" the public footpath that runs from Clifton through the heart of the campus.

We understand there have been a number of objections from local residents, many of whom may have used the path for years. We can understand their feelings. They are innocent casualties of the unfortunate, but very real, safety and security considerations that have prompted the application.

Given the very serious criminal incidents involving attacks on children and teachers in schools around the country in recent years, even the most vociferous of objectors would recognise the absolute imperative for schools to do all they can to improve the safety and security of their pupils and staff.

The police have recorded 45 criminal incidents of varying seriousness at St Peter's during a three-year period, and many of these have been linked to access via the footpath.

We believe the school and its governors would be remiss in their duty of care if they failed to take action.

We believe all parents would wish for the same level of concern for safety and security at the school attended by their children.

Mrs JE and Mr NT Robinson,

Wedgwood,

Main Street, Alne.

Updated: 09:35 Thursday, February 24, 2005