THE judgement of two of our best-known high street retailers is called into question today.

At a time when the prevalence of knives on our streets is making headline news around the country, and police forces are urgently promoting knife amnesties, Binns could not have picked a worse time to give away free knives at its Darlington store.

After being contacted by The Northern Echo yesterday, the store withdrew the offer, and gave away free juicers instead.

Meanwhile, Woolworths has also come in for justifiable criticism for selling children's T-shirts with the slogan "Drive It Like You Stole It."

Presumably, someone high up in Woolies thought it was funny and failed to see the offence that would inevitably be caused. Perhaps they are not quite so high up anymore.

But while retailers have to show better judgement, we should not overlook the responsibility that lies with parents.

Which adult in their right mind would buy a child a T-shirt bearing that kind of slogan?

It is a question of common sense - both for High Street shops and for parents.

Northern comfort.

THE announcement that North Yorkshire has been voted the most beautiful county in England is a timely reminder that we should never take our good fortune for granted.

Of course, living in the north has its problems and it is right that we focus on how they can be resolved.

But it also has some spectacular advantages, not least the stunning countryside that is never far away.