Susan Stockwell gives a root and branch assessment of the ills of smoking (Smoking Concerns – Echo Sep 7).

Sentiments that a lot of us would agree with.

Back in time most of us smoked, it was the done thing, and it was only later on in life that most of us chose to abstain.

In its defence I can never recollect a case where somebody was burgled, mugged, knifed or shot to help feed a tobacco habit.

You always managed to summon up enough cash for a packet of woodbines.

Today we live in a society that is awash with drugs, the problem almost becoming acceptable, making our towns and cities dangerous places.

Is somebody sitting in a beer garden and blowing smoke into the atmosphere such a nasty thing in comparison?

Bob Woodland

Cavan Crescent

Poole