IN reply to Pete Winstanley (HAS, Dec 10). I went to a school which ceased using the cane before it was banned nationally.

Pupils discovered crossing the line meant nothing happened. Certain elements took those lessons with them when they left school.

The vast majority of parents are decent people who’ve brought their children up correctly. But look at where our nation is now! Teenagers having several children by as many fathers. Too many won’t take responsibility for their life, actions failings or child’s upbringing.

Children learning their values from video games, the internet and gangs, and think attacking the emergency services is okay.

Levels of violent crime has massively increased over the recent years.

Something has to be done and that means beginning with discipline, morals and values taught within the home and reinforced at school.

CT Riley, Spennymoor