IN reply to R J Dovey, who sympathises with Nancy Dyon, I would say that, although I'm not a regular traveller on public transport, I have had occasion to travel on a "school bus" and experienced similar behaviour from some of the schools mentioned.

However, I chatted to the youngster I sat next to (and passed the time of day with one or two others). It was interesting to hear about their work, interests and thoughts for their future.

Yes, I will agree their sheer exuberance did not go down well with me, but I kept in mind that these youngsters had been confined to schoolrooms all day. I am old, yet recall the joy of release from classroom confinement.

I also remember that my generation was the "pits". That's the way it will always be with varying generations.

These are the same young people who, just a few weeks ago, were raising money for annual Children in Need appeal, in earlier years Blue Peter appeals, and who have also responded to Duke of Edinburgh award schemes. Before long, some of them may be protecting our interests abroad.

These "atrocious" youth are our future. In all honesty, there are times we can all remember someone saying "in my day...."

Get to know them. They are not all bad.

R A SLADIE,

Tenbury Wells,

Worcestershire.