WE appreciate that the photographs on this page, of children suffering from horrific disfigurements may distress some of our readers.

But we publish them because we believe it is important to underline the hope that surgeons such as Professor Milton Waner can bring to children with facial growths which threaten to blight their lives.

The physical difference in the before and after pictures is incredible and the consequent emotional difference is just as important. Children whose appearances would be cruelly rejected by society, have been made to look close to normal.

Professor Waner is confident he can make that kind of difference to Hannah Maxwell-Jones, the little girl from Nunthorpe, Middlesbrough, who touched the hearts of so many readers of The Northern Echo.

It is important to stress that Professor Waner cannot make Hannah look totally unblemished - but his pioneering techniques are expected to bring about a significant improvement within 18 months.

Traumatic and exhausting trips to America will be required before the improvements can begin - trips which have been paid for through the Helping Hannah Face The Future appeal - but Hannah's parents know it will be well worth it.

They have done everything possible to give their daughter a chance of a normal life and thousands of people across the region will join them in praying that the forthcoming operations are successful.

We know from the amazing response to our Ring In For Hannah Day in December the impact this sad, but inspiring, story has had.

And although it is the admirable skills of Professor Waner which hold the key to a brighter future for Hannah, all those readers who contributed to the appeal should feel proud that they have played a part in helping her face the future.

Naughty, but fun

SAUCY seaside postcards have no place in an age of rampant political correctness.

That's why we wholeheartedly welcome news of a rescue deal for the Scarborough-based makers of the naughty cards. The rights to the images have been secured and a bright future in the 21st Century seems likely.

Tacky, certainly. Sexist, perhaps. But lots of fun and a great British institution well worth preserving.