LOOKING back over the decades, you cannot avoid the conclusion that, for some considerable time, something fundamental has been missing from British life.

Call it public spirit, patriotism or that deep sense of loyalty and devotion to things higher and nobler than the individual self, but something vital is absent.

True, you get florid exhibitions of patriotism whenever England competes in an international sporting event, but do such effusions amount to anything significant? Not as far as the players are concerned, to judge by the recent shameful episode in South Africa.

The fault may be educational in that schools no longer seem to teach British history in a meaningful way. By that, I have in mind an in-depth portrayal and analysis of events and personalities that inspires in pupils a deep sense of pride in their country and its traditions.

Indeed, a true historical consciousness transcends time and gives those who have it an almost personal empathy with earlier generations – an empathy amounting to actual love.

In short, schools need to restore British history to a prominent position in the curriculum – the sooner the better.

Tony Kelly, Crook, Co Durham.