Colston’s legacy

SIR – I am delighted that the principal of Colston Girls’ School in Bristol has stood firm against erasing Edward Colston’s name from any connection with the school (report, November 3).

While slavery was abominable, many schools, colleges and institutions were founded as a result of the philanthropy of “slave traders” such as Colston, and many people are prepared to enjoy such facilities while at the same time trying to expunge any reference to these philanthropists.

History should not be obscured. Perhaps detractors could instead turn their attention to modern slavery, which is still rife.

Jane Harratt

Earls Barton, Northamptonshire