THOUGH Mr Andy Payton must be applauded for his belated message that drink-driving is fundamentally wrong (LET, January 14), I must take exception to his view that whilst a "well known player" he had to face the "indignity of going on buses."

For decades public transport has provided a commercial lifeline to many industries by taking workers to and from employment.

Many (if not all), of these industries were of far more socio-economic importance than football.

How disappointing that Mr Payton appears to have succumbed to the idea that footballers are a cut above the rest of us who either need or choose to use buses.

Public transport continues to provide an essential service and its contribution to society cannot be undervalued.

Moreover, Mr Payton need worry not. He could be sat next to me on a bus and I would struggle to recognise the celebrity next to me.

C EAVES, Heys Lane, Blackburn.