During the past two decades, we have succeeded in "protecting" children to the extent they are now effectively un-disciplinable.

Teachers are attacked by violent yobs who know that even if their head teacher decides they should be expelled, an appeal will almost certainly result in their re-instatement.

If the police do manage to catch one of the little thugs roaming the streets of Southwick, they will be represented in court by a whole army of hand-wringing, whining, professional do-gooders, who will recommend a holiday at the taxpayers' expense.

Times were when any adult would discipline any child and this would be approved of by the population at large.

It is no doubt true there were cases where kids were injured and so on, but little old ladies could walk the streets without fear of attack.

We must redress the balance and, to do this, discipline is the key. Without it, civilised existence is unlikely and a whole host of other benefits accrue through its acquisition - not least the fun of breaking out.

We have made gos of our progeny and this serves us all badly.

-Chris Reader, Brighton