I WOULD like to oppose the call for a ban on drinking in Tavistock town centre. I would also hope we could keep ancient religious scripture out of debates on public policymaking (the Rev Kyle?s letter, Times, November 4).

We know what impact this had when applied to Afghan society by the Taliban and we can see it being used by George Bush and the religious right in America to attack the rights of women and gay people. Worryingly, I suspect both the Taliban and George Bush would support the sentiments in the Rev Kyle?s letter.

Many people consider having a drink outside, whether in a beer garden, at an open-air concert or on a picnic to be one of life?s great pleasures.

With a few exceptions, I don?t think it is healthy for society when any level of government places restrictions on activities in public spaces which are perfectly legal in private. Personally, I have no enthusiasm for street preachers but I don?t want them banned from the town centre.

I think there is much that could be done in Tavistock to give young people an alternative to drinking in the town centre. For example, why doesn?t the Wharf act as a venue for bands which young people might actually want to go to see instead of the endless programme of tribute bands aimed at the over 50s?

The music scene in the south west is alive and vibrant but seems to be passing Tavistock by. No wonder we are driving our young people to drink!

Martin Quinn

61 Old Exeter Road

Tavistock