Ouch! A letter landed on my desk from Carole Harrop, for and on behalf of Keighley & District Childminding Group. I could feel the sizzle as I opened it.

Last week we carried a lovely picture and story on page three about Audrey Wynn becoming the first registered childminder in the north to receive a special grant from the government.

It was headed 'Pat on the back for super babyminder'.

Carole's letter begins 'Babyminders pat on the back leads to slap on the wrist for local journalists'.

She points out that the National Childminding Association has for many years campaigned to get rid of the babyminding/sitter label. The Keighley group is an established group of registered childminders who offer, among other things, access to training, a toy library and a monthly drop-in.

They are self employed and run their own businesses very successfully.

She adds: "We do understand that you did not intend to slight our profession intentionally, but with registered childminders it is like a red rag to a bull!".

I apologise for any offence we may have caused, but it was unintentional. I have to say it is the first time I have come across this particular issue, and now that we know I can do something about it.

Our industry magazines regularly carry lists of trademarks and preferred titles to make journalists aware of matters such as that raised by Carole.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.