FOLLOWING the recent tragedy in Manchester, a few things spring to mind.

Is there a conflict between Muslim and British values being spurred on by the power hungry and deliberate agitators on both sides?

There are indeed Muslim “Martin Luthers” who wish to see a version of Islam compatible with European values, yet they receive next to no publicity, and of course the many Muslim medical staff who save British lives rather than destroy them, the same applies here.

Perhaps we need to create an established version of Islam, similar to the Church of England which can teach both Muslim and British values side by side. This isn’t impossible, as existing bodies such as the Muslim Council of Britain are already working towards such a vision, which is in the benefit of all communities.

The other issue concerns suicide attacks is what sort of state of mind are these individuals in?

Is it genuine religion or politics or in fact a type of mental illness?

Many in this state of mind would have concerned loved ones, neither wanting to lose a family member or friend or witness them involved in terrorism against the innocent, but there is not always enough staff to be able to check up on those people.

Perhaps instead of fighting counter-productive wars in the Middle East, we could have a better funded mental health service including cult exit counselling for those involved in religious extremism.

A.R and K.A Wainwright Upper Fenn Road, Halstead

  • This divorce is getting messier

I MENTIONED here last month that Britany was planning to divorce Brussel and she needed to appoint a firm to handle the separation and her affairs at home.

Three organisations are pitching for the work.

TM PLC seems to be the favourite. The prospectus has a large picture of their boss who wants to leave details vague and options open.

Britany is being asked to trust TM’s team and that all will be well.

It seems business will be supported but the purse strings will stay tight. The divorce will be absolute.

After much consultation with student and trade unions, JC Limited has drawn up a long shopping list which Britany will be expected to pay for.

Any shortfall will be put on the credit card. They are confident that the economy is safe in their hands. Divorce from Brussel is less certain.

TF Friendly Society will not put forward a case for divorce and go further by outsourcing the governance of Britany to Brussel.

The office at Westminster will be converted to an art and cultural centre designed to attract the liberal intelligentsia.

Nicky from Scotland still bangs on about leaving the family and living with Brussel.

Some mutter “go on then, that’ll save us a few quid”. (Question-how does someone representing 10 per cent of the family get 25 per cent of the publicity?) In answer to questions about how they would deal with the defence of Britany’s estate, TM said she would use “eye for an eye” approach.

JC will wear adversaries down with long meetings and bore them into submission.

TF said nobody will care after he has legalised cannabis.

On how to stop the home filling up with Brussels extended family, TM talks tough but doesn’t always follow through.

JC’s firm can’t agree there is a problem and TF is putting up a yellow welcome sign.

Nicky is annoyed no-one wants to migrate to Scotland. The pledges will be largely forgotten on June 8.

Britany will probably vote on which team they think can be trusted with the cheque book, keep us safe and in work.

Nick Chilvers Canwick Grove, Colchester

  • A dozen reasons not to vote Tory

Vote Conservative! But wait, a Conservative government means: NHS patients lying on hospital trolleys, cancellation of urgent surgeries, staff shortages in hospitals, shortage of GPs, pension triple-lock cut, winter fuel-allowance cut (unless you’re in Scotland), schools begging parents for cash donations, housing shortage, falling wages and productivity, dementia tax, higher pension age, tax evasion by the super-rich, increase in the national debt.

On second thoughts...

Shauna Madhavan Colchester

  • A lot to spend on destruction of bird habitats

I AM writing in response to your article about the overgrown pathway set to be cleared in the Folley in Stanway.

100 metres of footpath growth is to be cleared by Essex County Council for £3,500 of Locality Budget money.  Not only does this seem an excessive figure, public money is wasted on cutting a hedge at what must surely be the wrong time of the year. 

Would the two very generous councillors please spare a thought for the birds that might be nesting in there before they give the go-ahead to this thoughtless habitat destruction funded by public money?

Hildegard Hill Mount Bures

  • Congratulations to New Inn on Camra award

I HAVE just read your feature on the New Inn and its well-deserved Campaign for Real Ale award.

I would like to say a massive thank you to Joe, Shannon and their team for supporting Colchester and Tendring Samaritans over their events weekend.

It was a real pleasure and privilege to meet with them and share their enthusiasm for their pub, customers and the Samaritans as their chosen charity for this event.

Well done Joe and everyone involved, in putting the New Inn on the map. You have created a great community pub.

Karen Thompson Fundraising co-ordinator Colchester and Tendring Samaritans