I WAS very disappointed by the attitude of A French, the head of Meadowhall Junior School in Rotherham ('Offensive old books', Letters, October 9).

This attitude falls into two broad categories which are to be treated suspiciously. The first is those who believe we should erase parts of our history when they offend modern ideals. This route can lead us to forget past mistakes, and allow us to make them again.

The second category is the book-burners, and what a dangerous crowd they are, telling us all what we should and should not read lest we be offended or, worse still, educated by their content.

I should have hoped a headteacher would have shown a more open view.

Dave Hay,

Park Drive,

Knaresborough.

Updated: 10:23 Thursday, October 16, 2003