I HAVE hesitated to write this letter, but having heard so much grief and anger concerning the reporting of the death of Dr Andrew Stanford in Riccall, I feel the need to express concern.

The loss of Dr Stanford is hard enough to bear, but when circumstances surrounding a court appearance were reported, even though the man has not had the opportunity to defend himself, is not acceptable.

Dr Stanford was greatly respected in the community as a GP and someone who had served as a doctor in Tanzania, Africa and deserves to be remembered with greater dignity than has been offered hitherto.

The Rev Maurice Staton, Mount Park, Riccall, Selby.