I READ that the thought police in the form of Labour MP Jenny Chapman and local black political activist Sean Campbell have accused Brian Johnson, the chairman of Darlington Cricket club, of using a racist phrase during the meeting to discuss the future of Darlington’s former football ground, Feethams (Echo, June 21).

Sadly, these days we are often walking on egg shells lest our political opponents accuse us of making racist, sexist or homophobic remarks – usually when they feel they are losing the debate.

So much for freedom of speech.

If Mr Campbell is so keen on celebrating Darlington’s first black footballer then why not put a plaque up in Darlington’s new stadium?

However, the way football managers are now choosing foreign players, it would seem that it won’t be long before somebody puts another plaque up to commemorate Darlington’s last white footballer.

Quite frankly I don’t think the folk of Darlington care one way or the other.

As for Mr Johnson, the chairman of Darlington cricket club was a prominent solicitor and circuit judge who represented and presided over people of all races and creeds.

The man does not have a racist bone in his body.

Bob Pickersgill, Low Dinsdale, near Darlington.