IT is indeed a rare event when I find myself in agreement with Brian Derbyshire, but I felt that, despite his vitriolic attack on me the other week, I must write to support the views expressed in his letter today (August 27).

I should add that those who know me also know that sniggering is not my style.

I have been known to laugh out loud occasionally but never at Mr Derbyshire's letters.

However, the provision of street furniture designed to prevent injury to drivers who are so unable to control their vehicles that they cannot keep them in the roadway provided for them, is but the first step toward insisting that we all live in padded accommodation to reduce the incidence of accidents in daily life.

The Rev Michael Williams, maybe coincidentally, touched on a similar theme when he said that children should not be kept completely free from risk in their development.

This concern that we should be protected from the effects of our own irresponsible behaviour is one of the worst aspects of the Nanny State beloved of the Labour party, and simply leads to those, who already lack a responsible attitude to others, aggravating their behaviour.

It is time to sweep away this nonsense and not only encourage a responsible approach to everyday relationships but also let those who act irresponsibly take the consequences.

Jolyon H Coombs

Carslake Avenue

Bolton