WHEN we think of the summer of 2002, two names will always dominate our thoughts: Holly and Jessica - two ordinary yet beautiful little girls, unthinkably lost to the world.

Last night's service in their memory was a coming together of sadness and joy; of desperation and hope.

But even though many questions remain unresolved, it is time to move on.

We will not forget Holly and Jessica, but a start has to be made on enabling some kind of normality to return to Soham, a small town which has gone from obscurity to worldwide notoriety in a matter of weeks.

Jessica's mother, Sharon Chapman, is leading the way. Her strength in vowing to return to her job at her daughter's primary school on Monday is an example to everyone.

The vicar of Soham, the Reverend Tim Alban Jones, also pointed to the way ahead during last night's memorial service.

"We must not raise our children to live in an atmosphere of constant fear and suspicion, where everyone is mistrusted," he said.

Of course, that is easier said than done. Parents everywhere are holding their children's hands a little tighter; watching their steps a little closer.

It is entirely understandable and correct that they do so. But, at the same time, Mr Alban Jones is right to call for this appalling tragedy to be kept in a balanced perspective.

Childhood is precious and gone all too soon. The greatest tragedy would be to deny a generation of youngsters the freedom to enjoy it.