well i suppose where patriotism comes in is that England is traditionally a tolerant country.

America has always been a long way in front of us in recognising the rights of the gay population and recognising their great contribution to society.

i think you are wrong to intrude into other peoples lives Ake by mouthing off about the gay right to marriage. let me assure you that many gay people have loving passionate relationships - sometimes lasting a lifetime. and they are deserving of all the dignity that society can confer.

when i gave up smoking, what really did it was that i became aware that society had changed. and ian, that's how it will be for people like Ake. society will change, and just as we see the racist humour of the 70's is wrong - Ake will change, or die an anachronism.

i was on a cruise last year, and there was a comedian in the bar. the elderly audience were doubled over laughing at the racist jokes. thirty years out of date - the act and the audience.

don't descend to the level of abuse. you won't change some people. but society will change, and everyone with the wit to know it has, will move on.

abuse is ugly, and its a bad talent to develop.