I WAS disappointed to read Anne Scuse s letter (October 16) expressing her disapproval of breast feeding in public. It is precisely the help and encouragement I received from health professionals that allowed me to breast feed my first child until he was

I WAS disappointed to read Anne Scuse's letter (October 16) expressing her disapproval of breast feeding in public. It is precisely the help and encouragement I received from health professionals that allowed me to breast feed my first child until he was a year old and my second son who is currently four months old. The UK has one of the lowest initiation rates for breast feeding in Europe and comments such as Ms Scuse's will not encourage new mothers to at least give it a try.

Breast feeding 'on demand' is just that. I am not particularly keen on feeding my son in public and try to be a discrete as possible, for my own benefit rather than those around me. As a mother of three children herself, surely Ms Scuse knows that besides the health benefits to both baby and mother, breast feeding is instantly available and, given the country's current financial status, it is free! Breast feeding in public places is not illegal, and never has been, but if it affects Ms Scuse's sensitivities so much, perhaps she should enjoy her "quiet cup of coffee" at home in Little Downham.

SALLY THAKE

Ely

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