IT is a great pity that preparations for the wedding of Sir Paul McCartney and Heather Mills have been marred by stories about the bride in some newspapers.

We hope the reports do not tarnish today's joyous occasion.

There is much to be admired in Ms Mills, who only came into the public eye when she lost a leg in a road accident nine years ago.

Yes, she has courted publicity. But she has courted publicity for worthy causes which would otherwise have enjoyed more scant attention.

She has devoted much of her time and efforts to her charity, which raises money to buy artificial limbs for the victims of landmines around the world.

And she has also become a selfless campaigner for the rights of disabled people of all ages.

She has led by example to show that disability can be overcome.

For all his fame and fortune, her husband-to-be has endured his own tragedy. He has done so with respect and dignity.

The couple have had their fair share of individual grief, and have found comfort and support in each other's company. It is churlish not to wish them well in their future together.

When sanctions won't work

THERE is little criticism of the notion of moving single parents and the disabled from welfare into work, where such a transition is possible.

It makes sense for the Government to spend money to allow people to make a contribution to the community. And it may provide these people with a window of opportunity which would otherwise not be available to them.

Such incentives can be good for the country, and good for the individuals concerned.

However, it is important that these vulnerable sections of our society are treated with a degree of compassion.

They must be encouraged and coaxed, and not browbeaten into employment.

While it is necessary to include a degree of compulsion in the reforms, the use of sanctions must only be used as a last resort.