I was saddened and disappointed to read your headline, "'Close it' storm on home for children" (December 28).

Barnardo's has the guts and vision to face the challenge of providing security and trust to youngsters who have suffered nothing but rejection throughout their short lives.

Wanting to close it down simply reinforces the process of rejection and achieves nothing.

Using Barnardo's as a scapegoat for incidents of petty crime is a reflection of both our prejudice and shortsightedness. It is much easier to blame the outsider than ourselves.

Surely, Barnardo's needs Tadcaster's support, rather than constant criticism and blame when things go wrong. Haven't we the courage to support the staff in their unbelievably difficult job?

I suggest a different petition: one to persuade the town council to liase with the staff of Barnardo's to discuss how best to support them in their valuable caring work.

Peter J Hodgson,

Sedge Rise, Tadcaster.

...I live near Tadcaster and wonder who Coun Jean Ashton is? I did not know my district and county councillor and suddenly there is an article in the Evening Press (December 28).

Is this the same Jean Ashton who has ignored our flooding problems, in spite of letters begging for help?

Ah, but it all comes clear now, there is an election coming up and she wants to be re-elected to her county seat. Come on Jean - we elect you for a four-year term not for four months before an election.

Harry Ford,

London Road,

Barkston Ash.