THERE are times when we all feel that life deals us an unfair hand. But those feelings have been put into perspective today by the unimaginably cruel hand which has been dealt to the family of Daniel Readshaw.

The loss of Daniel's sister Anne-Marie two years ago at a swimming pool at Spennymoor Leisure Centre touched the region. She is fondly remembered every year, when schoolchildren take part in a cross-country challenge in her memory.

Now, Daniel - a week before Christmas - has died in an identical tragedy at a school swimming pool in Bishop Auckland.

Anne-Marie was 13 when she died and so was Daniel. They leave three sisters, one of whom, 10-year-old Catherine, is battling against leukaemia.

It simply defies belief that one family should have to endure so much terrible pain.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to Daniel's family, his school friends and his teachers. All of them will need love, understanding and as much support as can be mustered in the close-knit County Durham community in which they live.

Christmas is a time for children; for watching the joy on their faces as they unwrap their presents. Daniel's presents lay wrapped underneath the tree in the family home in Ferryhill.

This Christmas we should remember how lucky we are - and say a special prayer for the loved ones of Daniel and Anne-Marie Readshaw.

Time for truth

FOR years, Michael Jackson has been a sad and worrying figure, dogged by suspicion.

Last night, the foundations were laid for one of the most sensational trials in history when he was charged with molesting a cancer-stricken boy at his Neverland Ranch.

The world does not know if Michael Jackson is a child abuser or a victim of his celebrity status.

But it is right that the years of doubt and innuendo are brought to an end and the accusations are properly examined in a court of law.