NO LESS a luminary than Citizen Smith has commented on the sudden outbreak of stupidity that occurs when not too bright people drink copious amounts of warm beer outside in the sun. And given the recent weather, stupidity has abounded.

It has been very noticeable in Morecambe, particularly at those pubs that front on to the promenade and have tables on their frontage to accommodate drinkers, that several things are happening.

First of all, the right of way is often blocked for pedestrians, particularly for those in wheelchairs or mums who are pushing strollers.

Secondly, the drinkers frequently make asinine and sometimes quite insulting comments aimed at those walking by, much of it quite audible to passing pedestrians and in language which is, frankly, disgusting.

Finally some of those drinkers are quite clearly drunk which, I believe, is an offence in a public place. It is also illegal to serve them more alcohol in that condition - and particularly as they have glass readily at hand. All in all it is a recipe for trouble.

There has been much said in the media recently about the problem of drunkenness in the UK and the need to adopt a more continental 'cafe culture' whereby pleasant conversation and responsible consumption can be enjoyed sitting outside in a bistro style pub or restaurant.

But in order to attain that, it is necessary to have people who are already cultured or a desire by those who are not to learn to embrace culture. That simply won't happen in the UK.

Roger Marsh, Morecambe.