WHEN faced with a national crisis many Britons display Churchillian tendencies – at least in their words, if not their deeds.

In the wake of the recent terror attacks, a lot of brave-sounding things were spoken about how we must ensure the scumbags who killed innocent men, women and children didn’t force us to change our way of life. “They will not divide us, our cities are open for business, carry on as normal,” are all laudable sentiments, but they are also easier said than done.

That is certainly true for some parents in our region.

Last week, a school trip from Tow Law to a mosque in Hartlepool was cancelled as some parents feared the centre might have become a target for a backlash in the wake of the Manchester and London murders.

In today’s Echo we report on parents whose children attend a Crook primary school who have withdrawn their kids from an upcoming trip to London amid fears that the streets of the capital are unsafe. Similar stories have been reported across the country.

These parents are not feeling particularly brave or defiant, they are feeling scared and protective. Their reaction is wholly understandable.

Should we also stop kids from crossing the road or playing in the countryside? Statistically, you are as likely to be killed by a wasp as you are a terrorist, and road traffic accidents are a far greater threat to the safety of children.

Ultimately the decision lies with parents and grandparents and no one should feel guilty for keeping children safe - but we also cannot keep them wrapped up in cotton wool forever.

Giving youngsters the freedom to experience the world is all part of letting them grow up.