PART of my column is given over this week to Sean Davies, a pupil at Leigh St Mary's High School, Astley.

As part of the school's Industry Week I invited year 11 pupils to air their views on subjects on which they had strong feelings.

Three pieces of work from the students have been chosen, and one will be published each week.

This week I have selected Sean's views on war, which by now has started in Iraq despite the protests of the majority of British people who don't want blood on their hands.

He writes: "I think war is very wrong as many people get killed, and not just people who are fighting but innocent people who have nothing to do with it. War affects many people as heavy bombing destroys their homes, and it also destroys wildlife and nature.

"With the Iraq situation if war breaks out petrol prices will go up and taxes may go up as war costs money, lots of money.

"I think wars should be fought by the countries that are in conflict, but I still don't think that it is right. Terrorists will also strike so people are never out of danger if they are at war. War causes so many problems and should be stopped. There should be peace all around the world and not hatred."

Good work, Sean.

There may be dark days ahead, but even if we don't back the war we have to back our troops, many who probably joined up never dreaming they would be in a battle situation.

I feel for the Leigh area parents who have children in the Gulf and who have to sit by and wait for news. Let's hope any conflict is short.

If you are a parent with a son or daughter at war let me know who they are and how you and they feel. E-mail me at lrichards@lancashire.newsquest.co.uk or write to me at 44-46, Railway Road, Leigh, WN7 4AT.