Rob Burrow’s story is one of modern-day courage, determination and comradeship (Rob Burrow, former Leeds scrum-half, dies at 41, years after MND diagnosis, 2 June). Over the coming weeks our politicians would do well to remember his inspiration, dignity and down-to-earth honesty. Toby Wood Peterborough How I agree with Honor Cooper regarding the “excessive references” to Dunkirk and D-day (Letters, 30 May). On 30 June (Armed Forces weekend), our parish will commemorate not only D-day, but the battle of Monte Cassino and the contest for Hill 112 near Caen, in both of which men from our parish fought, but not all returned home. Christine Edwards Veryan, Cornwall I hope that some of the utopians who have decided to desert Labour over its treatment of Diane Abbott took the trouble to read Joseph Walker’s plea (Letters, 30 May). Labour isn’t perfect, but does it really take a 17-year-old to remind us of the alternative? Nick Swallow Worminghall, Buckinghamshire Peter Gabriel’s comments on bonobo apes’ responses to music reminded me of a school visit to Paignton Zoo ($10m prize launched for team that can truly talk to the animals, 30 May). When we played our recorders to the elephants in their enclosure, one waved its trunk to the music; the other was sick over the back wall. You can’t please everyone. John Bryden Oxford When regularly confronted with a pint that was more froth than beer (Letters, 2 June), I used to say to the pub landlord: “That’s a generous half.” Adrian Strangeway Tawa, Wellington, New Zealand