Dear Free!

I've travelled a lot in the UK over the past two years and I have to say what the gay scene in Ireland lacks in size, it more than makes up for in quality. There's a few reasons why Ireland wins hands down.

1. I love the mix of people - gays, straights, lesbians, young and old all socialise together. I find British pubs and clubs very segregated and ghetto-ised.

2. Irish clubs don't pander to the drug scene like many UK ones. Sure it's there, but it's not in your face. So many UK venues ar full of muscle marys with their topsoff and dripping with sweat - a rare sight thankfully, in Ireland.

3. Irish drag queens are ina league of their own. In theUK you get one bloke in a wig and a bad frock after the other, all spouting the same jokes and dated material. In Ireland the major drag acts have real characters, distinct looks and creative performances. Panti, Shirley, Vada, Annie, Titti, Rentecca and many others do their thing and do it well (though mand of the "new" acts are a bit forgettable).

4. Irish Men. Enough Said!!

The main area where Ireland falls down is drinks. Most UK pubs have £1 drink nights, all you can drink for £10 etc. I know there it's a different market with different rules and competition, but I think Irish drinkers are being ripped off.

J Gleeson, Wicklow

Dear Free!

I know "cruising the streets" is an artform and cherished pastimes in many parts of the country, but I hate it when I see guys doing it in fullview on the streets with no regard for

passers by. I was ashamed to be gay a week ago asI left a Dublin gay club, to see two guys, practically bollock naked, going for it like two dogs in heat! Particularly as I was with two female friends.

For God's sake guys if you can't get a room, go find a very dark doorway or alleyway. If you have no respect for yourself, at least have consideration for others.

Peter McDowell, Dublin 8

Dear Free!

Having supported Dublin Gay Pride fo rmany years I was surprised not to be approached for our usual advertisement in their programme this year. So, for the fourth year running, can I ask when will Dublin Pride start publishing detailed accounts?

Richard Dobson, Manager - The Boilerhouse, Dublin2