There has been much written over the past few days about schools' attitudes towards bullying and the distress which has been caused to victims and parents.

Sadly, bullying within and outside of school is an age-old problem, which I do not think will ever be fully eradicated from our schools or society in general.

Although very difficult to do, it is important that victims report any instances of bullying to their teachers or parents at the first opportunity to prevent it becoming a serious problem at a later date.

Headteachers must play their part - as I have no doubt many do - and, where necessary, punish the culprits. Parents should also be informed of what their children have done to another pupil at the school, so they can take their own measures against their son or daughter.

Bullying is unacceptable and the police should be informed if unsatisfactory action is taken against any culprits by the headteacher.

All headteachers must face up to bullying and take seriously any reported acts.

They must be assured of the full support of governors and parents in any action taken against the bullies.

-Steve Fuller, Hove