I WAS present at the protest against the sacking of The Bolton University lecturer, Damien Markey and his wife, Jennifer and read both your online report and the news story.

Please allow me to respond to the comments made by the University of Bolton’s spokesman who said: "The protest was highly irregular, called without any ballot and at a time when university local procedures involving an appeal have not yet been completed. The attendance was poor with only one actual member of staff present and half a dozen students. Clearly it was consistent with a small group of people again attempting to bring the university into disrepute particularly in the media."

In the democratic world outside Bolton University a protest does not require a ballot. Independent comment on and condemnation of the situation whereby two popular and respected members of staff, Damien and Jennifer Markey, are summarily sacked, is not irregular. Lawful expression of public opinion does not prejudice an appeal. That Bolton University suggests otherwise is disingenuous.

To quote Albert Schweitzer, who received the Nobel Peace Prize for his philosophy of "Reverence for Life" - " The first step in the evolution of ethics is a sense of solidarity with other human beings". Contrary to the University "Spokesman's" attempts to detract from their efforts, The Trades Unions and all who support Damien and Jennifer demonstrated sound ethics and solidarity today. This is a principle which Bolton University would do well to emulate.

Sue Vickers

Address supplied