FOLLOWING the extensive reporting in The Herald last week of Plymouth's massive alcohol problem, I would like to respond to some of the comments.

Alcohol-related violence and hospitalisations are the visible face of alcoholism. The invisible face is those who go home from work every day and during the evening consume a bottle of wine and/or other alcoholic drinks, and repeat the process day after day. Often these types have professional jobs.

Both types of drinker are one and the same, as both are addicted to alcohol. In my experience, emotional appeal seldom works on either type.

I do not hold with the view that abnormal drinkers can become normal drinkers.

Such a view has the potential to prevent the breaking of the drinker's obsession with alcohol.

These types of drinker need information that carries weight and offers them a sufficient substitute.

The Herald's reporting is compelling evidence that it is time for action to be taken to stem the flow of alcohol.

The cafe culture has failed to materialise following the introduction of 24-hour drinking, and supermarkets have made alcohol so cheap.

If anyone thinks that they may have a problem with alcohol, try going a whole month without drink.

KEVIN ROCHE

Plymouth