Sir, I wouldn’t have the courage to intervene when witness to bad behaviour of young people on our streets (“You must be kidding, David”, times2, Feb 7). However, I have, on occasion, praised a yobbish-looking youth for good behaviour. The ensuing incredulous reaction, often leading to a grin, gives me much pleasure. But I also have the sad thought that the greater the astonishment expressed, the more likely it is that praise is rarely experienced by the young person concerned.
Philippa Russell
Birmingham