THOUGH I am apparently wrong in my assumption that the naked cycle ride was sanctioned and a charity event, I maintain my contention that Mr Stephen Gough is a very expensive public nuisance.

In reply to M. Matcham and M. Waugh, I agree that his behaviour is not a whim; it is an obsession.

The waste of resources, solicitors, police and court time, is money that could be spent to alleviate genuine problems.

It is also wrong to claim that he is exercising his human rights.

Human rights exist to protect people within the framework of the law.

It is not a charter for people to do anything they want. That he breaks the law is obvious by the number of times he is arrested.

So let’s stop pandering to Mr Gough’s seemingly insatiable desire to shock and get the adrenalin boost he needs to sustain his ego; put him in secure accommodation and treat his problem until he is ready to conform to decency laws that apply to us all.

I find one thing puzzling: if Mr Gough believes in complete nudity, why does he always wear a hat and boots?

MR D. R. SMITH, Southampton.