HITTING children must stop Full Stop.

The NSPCC's latest campaign has shown that the physical punishment of children is not common sense. Not only is hitting children ineffective and a lesson in bad behaviour, most parents agree that it is simply wrong.

The Government can no longer ignore this challenge, hiding behind the very weak 'nanny state' argument. This is an issue for society as a whole, not just the family, and the Government must take a lead to change parental attitudes.

We must support parents and protect children. This means much more education, support for families under pressure and law reform to make it clear that hitting children is unacceptable.

RUTH OLDFIELD

Roman Walk

Watchfield