MADAM, Yet further outbreaks of violence on the streets of Ross-on-Wye followed by prompt attendance of police officers – a good example of fire brigade policing – attendance after the event. Far removed from the principle on which our police service was founded and which held good for over 150 years – 'Prevention and detection of crime, preservation of the peace and public tranquility'.
This can only be achieved by the physical presence of police at times and places where such events can reasonably be expected, late evenings and weekends. No doubt we shall hear the familiar cry of insufficient police officers despite a record number nationally.
May I suggest a solution? That the disproportionate number of officers of all ranks confined to desk and administrative jobs at headquarters far removed from contact with the public be required to work, say, eight hours a week on the streets at times when disorder can be expected.
Front-line officers well know these officers of all ranks – they are known as 'Olympic flames' (never go out).
Time for action in the public interest.
FGA Benbow, Ross