Sophie’s story will make a difference

In response to the extract from Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s book last week, in which she revealed that she was raped aged 17, it’s incredible that she has had the courage to speak out. And, while she can’t change the past, she’s changing the future by raising five boys who know the difference between right and wrong.

M. Brown, Dublin

A beautifully well-written and honest article which also demonstrates that, at the age of 17, when girls feel all grown up, they are actually still very vulnerable.

F. Stevens, Oxford

Good for Sophie for being so brave and giving us a platform to discuss these issues, which affect more of us than you would think.

Violet Nicholson, Somerset

As a woman, I have had my fair share of situations like this, but I wish Sophie had kept her own experiences private.

D. Edwards, London

This happened to me at a house party and I was left feeling confused, ashamed and used. The next time I saw him was 15 years later at my children’s school: my heart stopped and all those emotions I felt as a 16-year-old came flooding back. He had no idea who I was, I was no doubt just another number to him.

Name and address supplied