'The sacrifice and service of those who fought for our country will never be forgotten' - Your Letters: May 9

As the nation this week marks the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day, it is right that we pause to recognise the remarkable bravery, dedication and commitment of the Second World War generation.

We will stop and reflect again in August to commemorate VJ (Victory over Japan) 80.

The sacrifice and service of those who fought for our country will never be forgotten.

While VE and VJ Day stand as a reminder of the end of war, it was not the end of suffering and hardship for many of those who served, and for the families of those who lost their lives.

The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund was there to help individuals and families during and in the aftermath of the war.

Between 1945-1950, the Fund spent nearly £3 million supporting RAF personnel and their families, including providing financial grants to schooling for children who lost their fathers in battle.

Since 1919, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund has been there supporting the RAF Family and providing life-changing practical, emotional and financial assistance.

Since 2022, more than 112,000 members of the RAF Family have benefitted from our support, of which nearly 72,500 were serving personnel and their families. The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is more than just a charity, it has stood alongside the Royal Air Force in war, in conflict, and in peace, supporting the RAF Family whenever and wherever it is needed.

You can learn more about the Fund’s continuous support for the RAF Family at rafbf.org/lifetimeofsupport

Air Com Simon Harper, RAF Benevolent Fund

NEW LAW WILL DESTROY NATURE

The government’s intention to amend planning law at the expense of nature is out of date and time. The natural world is vital to us and we should think of it as our equal, not a separate entity to be pushed aside when it is inconvenient. Nature is the heartbeat of the planet and as part of the ecosystem ourselves we should be in harmony with it. Development on the scale the government is claiming is necessary has not been justified and does not create a skilled workforce across a wide range of job types. Nor does it back small, local businesses who are important to all communities, that are not part of the building industry. It is all short-sighted and lacking real vision. A vision that could gift humans and the natural world a better place to live.

J Cowley, Church Stretton

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