I read that certain games are to be banned in school playgrounds, including conkers and skipping, for fear of accidents. These two pastimes have been enjoyed by children for many years.

We are certainly doing our best to create a generation of wimps or, more likely, extremely frustrated boys and girls.

Is it now accepted that every grazed knee or bumped forehead is looked on as sufficient reason to claim compensation from the school. What solicitor worth his salt would encourage such a claim?

The letter from John Davidson (December 9), states that in his opinion, the children's playground on Knavesmire should not be allowed to be developed. One fewer place, then, for today's kids to be able to exercise and play freely.

I did not see the petition in favour of this playground, but would certainly have signed it if I had.

And I would put a Lottery win on the fact that had the children themselves been asked if they would like the playground to be opened, the answer would be a resounding "yes".

I absolutely agree that children at play should be supervised, if they are very young and there are older children around, but why cannot parents or older brothers and sisters help to supervise?

I am the mother of two sons, who were allowed to play as and where they wished. Now I have two granddaughters whose parents are of like mind and have raised two active and confident young ladies. I am sure that any attempt to prevent the natural risk-taking in children should be avoided at all costs - certainly in the relatively safe environment of a school or local playground.

Heather Causnett,

Escrick Park Gardens,

Escrick, York.

...With reference to the letter 'Play area is unsafe for kids', I accept the concerns of readers regarding siting of these facilities in an isolated area. But none of your readers has put forward a positive alternative. If it was put near to where the complainants live "not in my back garden" would no doubt be the reply.

Residents do not wish to overlook play areas and end up supervising them. I would like to know had the children a say in the siting?

Keith Chapman,

Vice chairman,

Nunnery Area Residents' Association,

Custance Walk, York.