LAST Friday, I accompanied 12 children and their teachers from Castlefield School to sing Carols and Christmas songs in the Octagon Shopping Centre outside the Virgin store.

This had been arranged by representatives from the Children's Society a national charity which we support every year.

They had a wonderful time, wore Santa hats, jingled bells, sang beautifully, and attracted an enthusiastic stream of shoppers who gave generously.

Father Christmas also came and was singing merrily.

All of these children are of Pakistani origin but they love taking part in the Christmas festivities and the school encourages the children of all faiths to understand and enjoy each others celebrations and beliefs.

The school frequently takes part in charity events to raise money for those less fortunate than ourselves.

I hope the two ladies who passed by and made some derogatory remark about the children's nationality in earshot of myself and one of the organisers, can reflect on this and perhaps have a change of heart at a time which is supposed to bring peace and goodwill to us all.

I hope they read this letter.

Can I also take the opportunity to thank the member of staff from Boots who gave the children a box of chocolates.

It was much appreciated.

Fabia Buss, Governor of Castlefield School, Hughenden Valley