MADAM, I was rather dismayed to read that a small minority of Hereford United football supporters are contemplating a season of violence.

Apparently, it is alleged that one of the supporters who goes by the name 'Old School' has pleaded for the 'Tamworth gang' to come to Edgar Street, but that if they do, they will not make it past Safeway. If true, then I find such remarks extraordinary, because if I were to invite guests to my home, it would be very discourteous let alone threatening of me to say to them 'but if you do take up my offer, you will not get past the end of my street'.

While I personally have no interest or knowledge of this particular sport, I nevertheless realise that a great many people love watching the game of football and I do not think it fair that their enjoyment should be spoilt by a small minority of people who seem more interested in violence than in the game itself.

Furthermore, I would have thought that visiting football fans would be given a warm welcome by Hereford United supporters (in the same way as the United supporters would like to be treated when they visit other cities to watch away matches ) as surely the money generated must benefit the football clubs concerned by the purchase of tickets to see the matches, not to mention the money they may spend in the cafes and restaurants in the city during their visits.

I have been led to believe by media reports that incidents of loud and aggressive behaviour by some football supporters are not confined to Hereford alone and that there is evidence to suggest that these unpleasant incidents occur in other cities throughout the country. This begs the question 'Why does this particular sport seem to attract unruly and disruptive elements?'

I would have thought that people go along to football matches to watch the skill and professionalism of the players and give support to their club, but at the same time show courtesy and respect to the visiting team. After all, whether or not one wins or loses the game, surely it is the efforts which are put into it which are important. I believe it was Mahatma Gandhi who said 'full effort - full victory'.

LEONARD TAYLOR

Attlee Close, Hereford