FREQUENTLY after a tragedy somebody bays for blood.
But since the deaths of three teenagers after a coach plunged down a ravine in the French Alps, nobody has demanded vengeance.
Quite the opposite. The headteacher of St James's School, Farnworth, David Bowes, has exemplified the Christian concept of forgiveness and helped to unite the school and the community.
His reaction of relief after coach driver Jim Shaw was fined, not jailed, is typical of his attitude throughout the aftermath of the terrible tragedy.
Mr Bowes said he is delighted that Mr Shaw will be able to rebuild is life.
His words: "We have regarded this as a tragic accident and we will continue to do that," are not only sensible but sensitive.
Like the families of the youngsters who lost their lives, Mr Shaw has suffered horrendously.
We hope that Mr Shaw and those bereaved families will find solace in Mr Bowes's sentiments.
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