I felt so sorry for the lady who tried to console her child on the bus and was made to feel like a leper (Letters, June 21).

I cannot believe in the year 2002 such intolerance and ignorance still exists. A child needs massive amounts of calcium, particularly during its first 24 months of life.

Milk contains the amount it needs. Ask a doctor which has the better bone formation, a breastfed or bottle-fed child. There is no comparison. Carry on with what you are doing. Your child will be happier and healthier for it. Don't let the bigots get you down.

When you breastfeed, you need all the encouragement you can get. It is a cultural thing. In many other societies they would not bat an eyelid.

-Mary Fagan, Addison Road, Hove