Sir -- Ian Joseph may feel hard done by because his name and photograph are displayed in various public places (Oxford Mail, December 7).

At the same time, though, he should regard himself as being fortunate not to receive a more severe punishment. Asbos (Antisocial Behaviour Orders) were set up as a community punishment and act as an alternative to custodial or probation-type punishments.

Staff at Temple Cowley Pools have to put up with a lot of nonsense from stressed-out fitness goers, rowers (like me) and overheated swimmers.

As well as Mr Joseph's poster, there are other signs within the pools warning people what will happen if they don't behave.

As the pools are a public place, any sort of unacceptable behaviour is therefore regarded as a public order offence.

Although I don't know what Mr Joseph did to warrant his Asbo, at least he is free to walk around and contact the Press. If he behaves himself, he'll be OK.

All sentences, whether they are Asbos, probation orders or even prison sentences, are a matter of public record anyway.

Mr Joseph's unwanted publicity is a small price to pay. Perhaps he should have a quick dip in the Hinksey Pool near where he lives? That should cool him down a bit.

PAUL LUMLEY

Oxford