22 JANUARY 2005, Page 17

From C.W. Prentice

Sir: Simon Heffer caused me to reflect that, during 35 years attending the Royal Opera House, I have observed that the standard of a man’s behaviour is in inverse proportion to the smartness of his dress. The demeanour of corporate patrons (who always dress up) is sometimes disgraceful. People who do not dress up are always there for the right reasons and their conduct is invariably impeccable.

A visit to a grand opera is not an ‘event’. It is simply going to a place of public entertainment, and should not be regarded in the same way as a royal garden party.

Chris Prentice

Weston-super-Mare, Somerset