It is not simply fear of litigation. As a leader of geography field trips, I have had to cope with stresses such as pupils shoplifting or parents abusing me because the bus carrying their children home got stuck in traffic.

Many NASUWT members are subject to a tide of vexatious allegations resulting from school trips. Is it any wonder an increasing number are not prepared to take them? Until the Government takes steps to protect staff from such allegations and recognises their dedication in taking pupils out of school, trips will continue to decline.

Michael Grant 28 High Street, Scotter Gainsborough, Lincolnshire