MAY I say well done to Andy Cole after reading about his trip to Zimbabwe this summer (LET, May 13)?

While I am self-confessed 'Dingle,' Andy Cole has certainly gone up in my estimation.

Not short of critics over the years, he has shown great resolve and determination both on and off the pitch. To give up a large chunk of his holiday shows the man's character in its true light.

He has never sought publicity for this work which, I understand, has been going on for some time.

What an example to today's stars. To hear and read of the problems out there must make us all stop and think.

While the Blues and the Dingles enjoy banter that sometimes goes a little too far, Andy's story makes the expression "more important than life and death" really hit home.

DAVE SHAW, Baxenden.