Prostitution is not illegal in this country, no matter how many people might prefer that it were.

But women, who for many reasons adopt the “oldest profession” as the best way of coping with their lives, have to stand out in the streets, in all weathers, offering their favours to any of the sad sickos who may pass by in search of whatever phoney affection real life denies them, the women putting their lives at risk.

A lady called Alison Berry decided to provide a safe haven for these women (T&A, March 23).

She played no part in people trafficking. She knew their needs and provided for them. She did not encourage them to become addicted to drugs, as many of the pimps who prey upon street girls do.

And what was in fact a public service, albeit one run for profit, has landed her with a two-year suspended jail sentence, plus 250 hours of unpaid community work.

Tell me, where is the logic in this? Where are the women she accommodated supposed to go now? And who will take responsibility if any of them are killed?

Karl Dallas, Church Green, Bradford