Are you concerned about the increase in petty crime and anti-social behaviour? Well, I think I may have found a solution.

There are a set of stocks and a whipping post in North Malvern Road, which, as far as I'm aware are not currently being used. How about relocating them to Belle Vue Island and utilising them every Saturday for appropriate offenders.

I understand there is nothing quite like a bout of public humiliation to deter any re-offences and I'm sure the local greengrocers and supermarkets would be glad to contribute their over-ripe and rotting fruit and vegetables for the occasion.

OK so it's not the most politically-correct approach to crime prevention, but then look where that's got us! Of course, we must not overlook the additional benefit of this form of swift local justice, not least among which is a greatly increased tourist market!

Miss R Clutterbuck, Newtown Road, Malvern.

Editor's Comment: We would be keen to see more use made of the modern-day equivalent of the stocks, the Anti-Social Behaviour Order.

One of the main deterrent elements of an ASBO, which our local police and magistrates have not yet come to terms with, is that the conditions and the names of those to whom an order is applied, including those under 16, ought to be made public.

The tools are in place and the legal system must work with the community to get to grips with anti-social behaviour.