The classroom is not for the faint-hearted | Brief letters

As a school teacher for more than 25 years, I can certainly say that I have never found children and education to be a “soft” option (Letters, 13 June). Oh for a nice peaceful manufacturing facility or scientific research establishment…
Clare Addison
Oxford

With reference to “Guardian-reading over-70s” staying active (Letters, 13 June), I tend to follow the sound advice of the American cartoonist Paul Terry: “Whenever I feel the urge to exercise, I lie down until it goes away.”
Adrian Brodkin
London

My husband is 74 and together with our neighbour, 75, and a friend who will be 81 this year, they cycle every week, weather permitting. They average a ride of 44 miles throughout the New Forest, at an average speed of approximately 15mph. I am so grateful that I am only 67 and not yet old enough to join in.
Fran Turner
Milford on Sea, Hampshire

Gordon Dalziel reports snow still present on the Cheviot in June (Letters, 13 June). I was in Buxton on 2 June 1975 when snow stopped play in a cricket match between Derbyshire and Lancashire. Saved my team from defeat.
Dennis Ruston
Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire

In reply to Tim Dowling (I’ve escaped the city. Now what do I do?, 12 June), my 22-month-old grandson and I often walk in the lanes around where he lives. So far he recognises vetch, nettles, dandelions, bluebells, “prickles”, ivy, buttercups and cow parsley. Eat your heart out, Tim!
Maggy Holland
Ulverston, Cumbria