THERE are many times when it is easy to think of the world as a divided place, with bitterness, rivalry, and suspicion setting countries and their people apart.

But, occasionally, something happens which provides a welcome reminder that compassion and understanding can overcome geographical barriers.

The deaths of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman - two beautiful little girls who lost their lives in unspeakable circumstances - is a moving example.

The Internet has enabled people all over the world to express their sadness and send words of comfort to the girls' families in a way we have not seen before.

From a 13-year-old boy in Palestine to a man in Brisbane, Australia, some of those sentiments are reproduced in this newspaper today.

We hope that this worldwide demonstration of support is bringing some comfort to the families caught up in what has become one of the most deeply upsetting tragedies in living memory.

It shows that people in far off corners of the world care deeply about the suffering of others no matter how far away they may be.

And at a time when the world seems a more dangerous place than ever as it stands on the brink of conflict in the Middle East, that should be a comfort to us all.

No need to jump in

DUNCAN Bannatyne has come out fighting in response to the unveiling of plans to establish a "Soccerdome" on the outskirts of Darlington.

The entrepreneur has put on hold his own plans for a new £6m office and health club because he believes the football proposal should have been kicked into touch without further ado.

Mr Bannatyne has our utmost respect as an innovative and successful businessman but we can't help feeling he has spoken out prematurely on this occasion.

The fact that the Soccerdome plan is heavily reliant on retail development means it is almost certainly a non-starter because of the potential impact on the town centre.

Nevertheless, it remains an ambitious and imaginative scheme and Darlington Borough Council has a duty to put it before elected members for their due consideration.