I have rarely seen The Argus's letters pages so devoted to one topic but, obviously, the tragedy of John Smith has touched many, many people.

If anything comes out of this sordid affair, it is that, when dealing with the health and welfare of children, we must all be vigilant - social workers, teachers, police, family, relatives, friends and neighbours.

And if ill treatment or abuse is suspected, we must intervene. The priority, always, is a child's safety.

-S Biddell, Brighton