THE Northern Echo (Jan 15) carried a report about a young man convicted of motoring offences who was sentenced to eight weeks in prison.

It is difficult to see what purpose such prison sentences serve, either to the individual or society. The prison stay is simply a burden on the taxpayer and too short for rehabilitation.

If the person convicted has a job he is likely to lose it.

Should such a scenario occur the ex-con will be an even greater burden on the taxpayer after release.

VJ Connor, Bishop Auckland