WE are extremely saddened by the negative opinions expressed about our beautiful new gates at Meadows First School, Bromsgrove.

It is so disappointing that members of the Bromsgrove community should choose to criticise the creativity and enthusiasm of our children. We must hope that these individuals spoke in haste, without taking time to reflect upon the hurt and damage that their comments would inevitably cause.

For many months, pupils of Meadows First and Parkside Middle Schools have been learning about the history of Bromsgrove’s craftsmen. Taking their inspiration from the famous gates at Buckingham Palace, our children began to create designs to express our pride in Bromsgrove’s metalworking history.

Many of the children’s final designs have been included in our new school gates. Our children should be proud of their creative achievements and the local community should celebrate the artistic abilities of its younger residents.

We value and congratulate our children’s enthusiasm and dedication. We believe that our wonderful school gates are a testament to Bromsgrove’s creative past and future.

Meadows First School Governors