SIR - One can well understand the anguish of a mother following the drowning of her son, but should those community support officers have gone in the water after him?

Somehow I think not. Many a tragedy has resulted from an ill- considered rescue or attempted rescue and this instance may itself be an example. If I saw someone in difficulty in the Severn I like to think I would go to their assistance but I would certainly not plunge straight in.

First I would note circumstances with regard to the current. If the victim had already submerged, as I understand was the case, I would not expect him to remain in the same spot as when last seen.

Then there is the question of depth. Even if the CSOs had been trained in rescue and survival it is questionable whether entering the water would achieve anything but it would certainly further endanger life.

JOHN HINTON, Worcester.