As retired headteacher of Alderman Knight School and in response to my Chairman of Governors kind words in your letters column of 19th January, I would like to reciprocate.

Dave Waters is a very astute, considerate and effective Chairman. I always found him to be very understanding of the needs of both children and staff at the school. I am sure that he will soon be prominent in both local and county government as an elected member. His commitment to serving the community is immense as is his integrity and honesty. I was equally blessed to have served with Alderman "Joe" Kent for whom I still feel great endearment and enormously indebted. Once again he stands out as someone of great integrity and honesty.

It is because of the total commitment of many governors under whom and for whom I have served, that the school has retained its place in our community as a centre of excellence, offering those children with special educational needs a quality provision.

Long may it remain so.

Ieuan Walsh, Retired headteacher.