THERE is little doubt that coronavirus has highlighted the current state of society. Fortunately the majority of people have responded admirably to the necessary appeals; some have gone the extra mile on behalf of their fellow citizens and there is no doubt that we owe them a debt of gratitude.

What a shame therefore that we have to contend with a number of people who steadfastly ignore the need to make it easy for people, especially the elderly, to go about their legitimate business, for instance collecting shopping or taking exercise.

As if the dreadful condition of the pavements – which have been studiously ignored by the local authority – many of which are cracked and suffering the effects of tree root disturbance was not enough, people continue to disregard the need to keep their distance.

Some walk in straight lines with no intention of moving, others walk in groups; youngsters fail to step aside for their elders and gormless individuals gazing at mobiles are often encountered.

Clearly parks offer opportunities for the majority of us to take a stroll, but joggers and cyclists are increasingly plaguing them. Joggers, in particular, are a nuisance, as they run past, puffing and blowing close to pedestrians – without turning a hair.

The intrusion of cyclists is not confined to parks; cyclists regularly occupy the seafront, which offers a gentle walk, devoid of hills and uneven surfaces. T

he fact is, that despite banning cycling and stating that dogs should be kept on leads – no attempt is made to impose these rules. As a result, selfish individuals who only think of themselves regularly invade the space of pedestrians.

Dog owners are a breed unto themselves. Quite apart from the fact that not all owners clear up their dog’s mess, pedestrians, some of whom fear dogs, have to endure some dogs that are not on leads and others on long leads, darting in all directions.

They also witness dogs licking children; this is excused as a display of affection, with owners ignoring that some bacteria in dogs’ mouths are zoonotic, meaning the animals can pass them to humans and cause disease.

Although the World Health Organisation has indicated that there is no evidence of pets spreading coronavirus, can owners afford to take the risk especially as reports reveal that one unlucky dog in Hong Kong tested positive for coronavirus, leading authorities to warn owners against kissing their pets? In my view, all of these problems can be resolved by people having consideration for others – especially at a time when we all know that there is a need to curtail our activities in the interests of everyone.

Neil Kelly Tredcroft Road Hove