ALTHOUGH I have never been in a bell tower let alone rung any bells, I can believe that there will be health and safety issues to be addressed, risk assessments to be made and standard operating procedures to be established in such an environment.

Many years ago I was involved in the introduction of H&S in the chemical industry.

Success depended on involving the staff affected and seeking their views, usually assisted by a experienced union representative.

Staff knowledge and understanding of their work and its environment was obviously second to none.

Small teams of staff and management would develop acceptable practices to both sides and the whole process worked smoothly with only the odd hiccough.

Our Dean and Chapter adopted a very different approach. No consultation with the people best able to identify possible risks; no collaborative approach.

This sad and unnecessary affair brings derision on the city of York.

Surely there is still time for conciliation.

Anne and Paul Bayliss, Dringhouses, York