MY daughter goes to St Anthony's School in Cinderford and is thriving there.

So I'd like to correct the ill-informed comments made last week by critics of the Free School proposal.

St Anthony's School has been in Cinderford for 50 years.

The pupils are all local children and their parents are the 'hard working ordinary people' referred to by Mr Stanway; they have merely exercised their right to pay hard-earned money for their children's education.

Mr Vidler wonders if Free School status would mean we would then get this 'elitist' education (by which is meant, I suppose, high quality education) 'for free'.

Well, yes, I certainly hope so. But here is the fundamental point which neither gentleman seems to appreciate: as a Free School St Anthony's will be open and free to everyone in the locality; no fees, no entrance examination.

The only limitation will be the small class sizes.

I believe most people will see this as a great opportunity for the town.

Mrs R Benatar

Mitcheldean