Sports Letters: Countering racism

Sir: I note in your report of the Mark Stein assault case, 'Stein found guilty', involving Jim Gannon of Stockport County, Judge Peter Northcote states that Mark Stein 'suffered from extreme provocation'. Judge Northcote then added that the accused (Mark Stein) 'will probably suffer more during your career but it is a burden you must bear'.

I disagree with the judge's approach as regards his attempt at improving race relations. A more balanced approach would have been to ask Stockport County what attempts they were making with regard to their staff in discouraging racially provocative behaviour.

Yours faithfully,

ERIC N KOTEY

W Yorkshire

29 October