WHAT a tragic end to such a young life as 14-year-old Joe Lister. There he was, with his friends, enjoying himself on a week's holiday at Bewerley Park.

I expect it's quite a modern place these days, but I went there in 1961 and had a wonderful time, although I don't recall going pot-holing.

There was only one project on which we were not accompanied by a responsible adult then, and that was not a dangerous situation.

Upon hearing of this tragedy, my first question was: "Wasn't there a responsible adult with these young people?".

If there was, why wasn't this person ensuring that everyone was getting out of the cave? The adult should have been the last out after all their charges.

It would be such a shame if school outings such as this were cancelled.

However, those who are responsible for the students must be fully trained in how to put them first. They are substitute parents, and should look after these students as if they were their own children.

Janet S Kitchen,

Ashley Park Road, York.

Updated: 10:51 Monday, November 21, 2005