THE punishment of Kelsey Donkin in the David Rathband “bang-bang” case (Echo, June 28) was sensible and proportionate for an offence that was stupid and grossly insensitive.

Incarceration would have cost the taxpayer a fortune and caused undeserved hardship to her children.

While I agree with the sentiments expressed by Colin T Mortimer (HAS, June 29) I feel much of his language was illadvised and inflammatory.

It appeared that he considered her to be a member of some subspecies whereas she is a child of her times – a culture of the worship of undeserved fame, reality TV and abominations such as The Jeremy Kyle Show.

I feel that much of today’s loutish behaviour is the result of poor education and a lack of discipline in the home.

The simple habit of saying “please” and “thank you” is not etiquette but the first rudimentary step in treating your fellow citizens with respect.

A home does not have to resemble a boot camp, but good habits taught young survive into adulthood.

Even today, my son, now middle-aged, will walk miles in search of a litter bin rather than throw rubbish away.

Unless stemmed, this lack of consideration becomes inherent.

Respect isn’t a weakness – it’s civilised behaviour.

VJ Connor, Bishop Auckland