I READ with interest your editorial (Evening News, December 19) headed "Taking a step in the right direction".

I was pleased to see your words of support but make the point, to avoid any confusion which may exist in the minds of your many readers, with reference to "Mr Hampson wants more men" (to join West Mercia Constabulary).

We are very keen to recruit men, and of course women, from all sections of our communities and are currently recruiting hard.

At the moment, 17 per cent of my force are women officers and I am very keen to significantly improve that percentage.

As you and your readers will know, 51 per cent of our population are women, and I welcome the day when we better reflect that proportion within our Constabulary.

May I take this opportunity to wish you, your staff and your readers a happy New Year.

PETER HAMPSON,

Chief Constable,

West Mercia Constabulary