REGARDING Mike Foster's statement about 24-hour drinking, I consider it to be totally unnecessary.

When I was a city councillor on the licensing committee, the excuse was put forward time and time again that extending the hours for nightclubs would result in the crowds dispersing over a longer period. This has proved to be total nonsense.

The drink culture does not fit in with 24-hour opening. Chief Constables up and down the country are totally opposed to this new legislation.

The council taxpayers of Worcester should not be expected to pay one penny piece towards this cost. The licensing trade should be responsible for the total amount of police coverage.

RAY TURNER,

Arboretum,

Worcester.