The dubious activities of certain travellers have given them a bad name in some quarters.

Let's be honest about this - they are simply not welcome in most communities.

But as we report today, travellers are as entitled to the protection of the law as any other members of the public.

That is why the £4,500 compensation award to Christopher Joyce against a pub licensee and her employers should be applauded by everyone who believes in equal treatment for all.

It was licensee Carol Griffiths who allegedly made the mistake of saying no' and refusing to serve Mr Joyce and his 13 children at the Blue Mile pub at Littlemore, Oxford, because he was a traveller.

With backing from police and the Oxford Council for Racial Equality, he has now won £4,500 compensation against the pub owners, React Inns.

Mrs Griffiths and React Inns are seeking legal advice on the ruling and clearly feel they have been hard done by.

But the law is the law, and everyone is expected to abide by it.

The case should serve as a warning to all - one word out of place in the present climate could leave you crying into your beer.