AFTER reading the views of Gordon Lees, clerk to the justices for North Yorkshire, regarding Chris Gregory's near death, and his agreement with the magistrates' sentence (Defending justices, May 14), it amazes me that if Mr Gregory had died this youth might only have got grievous bodily harm with intent (Mr Lees' words).

Mr Lees says he's been in his profession for 40 years. Maybe it's time for new thinking and a deterrent that is harsh enough to stop this madness that is taking over our once-decent country.

There must be fear of punishment not laughter.

Mr N Hillen,

Wains Road,

Dringhouses,

York.

Updated: 10:56 Tuesday, May 18, 2004