Very true – our children are precious.

And so say all of us!

Dragon reader Jane Hepburn saw these heartwarming messages in Stoughton and thought they ought to be shared more widely. We sincerely agree.

Ms Hepburn emailed: “I saw this charming graffiti on New Cross Road yesterday encouraging kids who were just starting back at school and it made me smile.”

We can all probably remember how daunting a first day at school can be for children and their nervous parents. This was a great idea to write an encouraging message, wishing good luck.

And the first message reminds us all how precious our children are, our most important stake in the future.

We say well done to the author for leaving such messages in chalk. Alas, they will wash away with autumn rain and time but, hopefully, the sentiments will last, having brightened the day for many who see them.