FURTHER to The Northern Echo (Jan 22) “Row over safety at the Miners’ Gala”.

Many will agree with Alan Mardghum, Secretary of the Durham Miners’ Association on local Conservative MPs (and the PM) not attending the Durham Miners’ Gala because of security concerns. On PM Boris Johnson saying he would “try his utmost” to attend the annual event, Boris should row back from any attendance.

The Tories will always be remembered for the pit closure programme, especially in the 80s under Margaret Thatcher’s watch.

Sadly politics has become very volatile on several fronts, hence in the interests of public safety these Conservatives should act responsibly and not attend the Durham Miners’ Gala.

George Dunning, Ormesby.