IS there a scientific explanation as to why people suddenly become so irresponsible and rude while driving their vehicles during the hot, sunny weather?

Radios start blaring; driving becomes erratic and some seem to rejoice at the sound of their horns and voices (not to mention their rude gestures).

Perhaps they want to attract attention, but I feel it's more likely that their brains have boiled in the heat.

While driving along Barbara Castle Way in Blackburn and approaching traffic lights, a car full of young men suddenly swerved in front of me at high speed (I had my two children with me).

Behind me was a red car, again full of youths which, if I had braked hard, would have caused a collision because of its close proximity to my bumper.

As I turned on to Preston New Road, the car behind sped alongside me and only just pulled in front. Again I had to brake. It was apparent the two cars were racing each other.

If any readers can tell me the reason for this kind of behaviour during sunny weather, I would love to know. In the meantime, please respect the drivers who wish to get home in one piece.

J E DUCKWORTH (Ms), Quebec Road, Blackburn.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.