Having just read the article on Headlands School I am pleased things are improving and the new head has told pupils what behaviour is expected of them as maybe now when I visit the local shop I won't be the subject of unacceptable behaviour.

The walk down Chestnut Avenue was horrible as children shouted in my ear on passing them, which they thought was highly amusing,

The workmen who are building the new shop were being pelted by stones while trying only to do their job.

Having lived in the street most of my life and now being just round the corner I can say I have always been troubled by children going home.

Perhaps having a teacher on the corner, not just by the school gates or by the shops would help.

My children and I might not feel so threatened and my mother's garden might not be quite the rubbish bin it looks after a school day.

SHEILA HARPER

Pinehurst