I HAVE a few points to make in response to the absolutely awful report of the serious sexual assault of a 13 year old girl in Sleeper Path, Huntington ('Footpath attack on girl 13', November 15),

Firstly, and most importantly, I hope the victim is all right and coping with her ordeal.

I hope she is not going to be permanently emotionally damaged by this attack, and I hope the offenders are caught and dealt with accordingly.

I am sure her family are supporting her through this ordeal.

I am not trying to be judgmental at all, and I invite other readers to reply to this question.

Is it just me, or does anyone wonder why on earth a 13-year-old girl is wandering around alone in the streets after midnight on a Saturday night? Or any night for that matter.

I have lived in this area for 40 years, and Sleeper Path has always been a quiet, dark little alleyway.

I am 40 years old and I am not sure I would take that path at night.

Am I the only one to ensure my 12 year old son is home and not out at such a late hour?

I thought 8.30 to 9pm was a reasonable time for a 13-year-old to be home.

I know exactly where my children are - at all hours.

They are not under the bypass in New Earswick on an evening drinking alcohol like many of the teenagers in that area.

I wonder how many parents know where their kids are and what they are doing?

Mrs Janet Peacock,

Anthea Drive,

Huntington,

York.

Updated: 10:59 Wednesday, November 19, 2003