It was good to see all the students doing what they do best last Thursday. Protesting.

This time it was the 'Don't bomb Iraq' anti-war protesters in the name of non-confrontational pacifists, even though arrests were made. Strange pacifists if you ask me!

What I object to is the wanton use of the poppy symbol as used by Thursday's protesters.

A white poppy on a stick might signify peace in some eyes, but to me it is an insult and a blatant hijacking ploy of a well-known symbol, which represents something completely different.

The Poppy Appeal raises money for, and helps us to remember the many sacrifices made by brave individuals in wars, which enable us all to live in a peaceful society.

I'm sure all those intelligent young students involved in Thursday's protest will be only too pleased to buy a red poppy in remembrance, because I would hate to think they didn't care.

I'm not an old soldier. I'm just someone who cares. It's good to be rebellious and to question authority, but don't just dismiss the past. And please show some respect.

COLIN WEBB

Holley Crescent

Headington

Oxford