IN reply to George Cowley, (You Say, August 25), I do not regard alcohol as a drug in the strict sense of the word. The key is the phrase used by Mr Cowley himself, "taken in excess".

There is no harm to people as a result of alcohol being taken in moderation. The occasional brandy is even beneficial to sufferers of heart conditions.

In reply to Mr Webb, (also You Say, August 25), I do not engage in sophism. I view all matters objectively and reach a reasoned conclusion.

D E MARGRETT,

Rowan Court, May Avenue, Worcester.