I AM writing in response to the letter by Mr K Ellis entitled 'What Happens To Our Community'? (Dear Star, May 24).

While I agree with everything that Mr Ellis says regarding the effect that the closure of Parr High would have on the community of Parr, to say nothing of the effect that this would have on pupils, I must point out that Mr Gerry Bermingham offered his support, throughout the last few months, to the campaign to keep the school open.

I strongly resent any efforts by politicians to make political gain from such a serious issue and applaud Mr Bermingham for not openly publicising his involvement but making enquiries on behalf of the pupils and parents involved in the campaign, behind the scenes.

Although not personally present at the public meeting, his representative attended to ensure that he was kept informed of all the issues that were of concern to his constituents.

I would like to thank him for his efforts to date and expect his successor in St Helens South (and colleague from St Helens North) to take the lead in this issue -- without bringing politics into the argument.

Politicians of all colours should be standing alongside the residents of this area to ensure that a key community facility is not removed.

Everyone with concerns about the closure of the school should write to the people that we elect to represent the interests of the community -- councillors and MPs.

PARR resident (name and address supplied).