Roy Hilliard (Letters, October 18) makes a valid point. Most sensible people do not take the words to Land Of Hope And Glory literally.

The exceptions to this, however, is children.

Young children, especially, can find it hard to understand metaphor in an unfamiliar context and it is natural for them to take things word for word.

As a parent, I know this. Teachers are expected to be responsible for the well-being of their pupils.

The NUT has chosen to alter this beautiful patriotic song to avoid exposing immature and vulnerable minds to what could be interpreted as jingoism.

A difficult and unpleasant decision, I am sure, but, in light of racial tension in Oldham and elsewhere, it is the right one.

Madeleine Taylor, Alderbrook Close, Crowborough

Brief lines

Oh, poor Diana Jones,

I hear your groans

Of Argus readers' letters, long and boring,

Oft in pensive mood on couch you lie,

At the point of snoring.

I share your fate - on page eight,

The Argus, October the tenth,

Were readers' views of local news

And letters of great length.

On Extra, page seven, was more of the stuff.

More time you passed reading of elected mayors and staff.

No readers' poems to impart -

To warm the cockles of your heart -

But, then, this letter would be far too long.

For all to see and you appease.

And that, to Andrew, is a crime. Oh, my.

-Peter Turner, Highcroft Villas, Brighton