AS a local head teacher I try to avoid writing letters to The Press, but I am moved to respond to the comments from Alexander Ogilvy (Letters, May 18) regarding the upcoming Gay Pride event in York in June.

At York High School, we have worked closely with York Pride and Stonewall to challenge homophobia within our school and in the wider community.

I am proud our students were in London this week presenting the campaign film they created which has reached the final of a national Stonewall competition.

I was equally proud when Sir Ian McKellen visited our school in 2014 recognising the work my colleagues and pupils had done challenging discrimination and in creating an environment where young people felt comfortable with their own sexuality.

We read and hear almost daily about the mental health issues surrounding young people, and the best way we can help and support them is to help them cope with the challenges that life puts in front of them. Young people coming to terms with their sexuality can face additional challenges and these should not be in a climate of fear, bigotry and abuse.

Events like the Pride event allow communities to come together to show that we celebrate difference, that we reject prejudice and that we are working together to make York an inclusive and tolerant city.

David Ellis, Head teacher, York High School