SIR - The Book of Proverbs tells us: "Where there is no vision, the people perish."

Nearly 40 years ago, the vision of John Brooke, former chief education officer for Worcestershire, caused the two outdoor education centres at Llanrug (Snowdonia) and West Malvern to be established.

Over the years they have offered, and continue to offer, basic accommodation and special, challenging activities.

The school curriculum is tightly constrained and more than ever children need to develop independence and enquiring minds outside the usual school environment.

Both centres now face closure. Both can reorganise to reduce the amount of support they need from Worcestershire County Council, but it seems a relatively modest level of continued support is needed in the short term to create the space for them to adjust.

Curiously, when nationally there is increasing emphasis on the value of outdoor activity and concern at obesity in our children, Worcestershire seems bent on removing facilities to meet such needs.

To lose these educational assets, would be a grave error of educational and political judgement. It is often said of national politicians that they know the price of everything and the value of nothing (Oscar Wilde) but we must hope that our local politicians have greater wisdom.

MICHAEL BURGESS, Former Education Officer, Malvern.