IT was with great interest I read the letter from Walter Scott (June 23).

My reason is, I currently work within Bolton's "red light" district. I do not have a pimp, I don't smoke, do drugs, or claim benefit. My only sin (if you can call it that) is the odd drink at the weekend, neither do I work from home -- I like my privacy.

In his letter, he spoke of persecution. In my opinion, he doesn't know the meaning of the word.

I have moved 12 times in six-and-a-half years, had a brick, eggs and a lighted firework aimed at my face. There has also been the threat of having my property petrol-bombed and derogatory remarks made by children while their parents stand there and condone it.

I am in no way ashamed of who I am or what I do for a living. The only people who should be ashamed are those who believe they have a right to judge me.

The sooner we have a toleration zone in Bolton the better. The idea of brothels would never work. To me, it's the same as having a pimp, so I would still work the streets, regardless of the consequences.

Mrs M B Marsden

Burnden