LET'S hear it for The Press and its Change It! campaign, which has succeeded in getting child abductors listed on the Sex Offenders' Register (Countless children will be protected forever, The Press, December 18). That's an essential, long overdue change in the law.

No child should be abused in any way whatsoever. Children are a sacred trust. Anyone whose child is being deliberately hurt should seek help immediately. A good first port of call is the Salvation Army.

Child abuse is an outrageous crime. It must be stamped out.

Janet Rowntree, The Dower House, Escrick, York.


AS children's and young people's champion for the city of York, I would like to congratulate The Press upon the success of its award-winning Change It! campaign. I was pleased that my first formal act as their champion was to ask (and gain) City of York Council's support for the campaign.

However, most of all I commend the bravery of Natalie Hick. This allowed her terrifying experience and the failings of the current laws to be brought to the public's attention. To me she has demonstrated the great virtues that our young citizens possess. I thank The Press for being an advocate for the rights of the children and young people of York.

David Scott, Children's and young people's champion for the city of York, Sandringham Street, York.