WHILE out walking in the Feniscowles area on the afternoon of Monday, June 17, a most disturbing incident took place.

On approaching the back street of Fielden Place and Eclipse Road, on foot, a small boy appeared riding a tricycle and was apparently surprised to see me in his path.

When he got over whatever shock he received on seeing me, his immediate reaction was to call me a 'stupid man.'

Naturally, I was taken aback and proceeded to tell him that he was a naughty boy and shouldn't be cheeky.

Imagine the repercussions if I had clipped him round the ear, his mother would have had me in the police station in no time.

This child was of only play school age, but must have heard similar comments nearer home to repeat such a thing to a complete stranger.

And he looked such a nice little boy.

I put this incident in writing in the hope that his mother may be made aware of what her child says to people he meets on the street.

Evidently it is not only school children who go off the rails of decent behaviour, but even virtual babies.

'AN INNOCENT PENSIONER." (Name and address received).

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