SIR - As the geographic inspector with responsibility for policing Worcester I felt it necessary to write in challenge of your editorial comments accompanying your front page item headlined 'A Flaming Disgrace' (Page 1, Worcester News, August 16).

Worcester city centre benefits from a dedicated local police team that consists of local officers, community support officers and special constables. This team not only provides a real visible presence within the city centre, but works in partnership with other agencies to tackle the issues around homelessness, street drinking and vagrancy, which can contribute to anti-social behaviour.

Far from having to "get back on the beat" this team, along with their colleagues and partners, consistently tackle issues of anti-social behaviour, such as begging, street drinking and disorder, and their efforts have made a real impact in making Worcester a relatively safe place. They have worked to ensure that events such as the St George's Day parade, Grenadier Guards march, Race For Life and the Worcester Festival are huge successes and enjoyed by all, enhancing the city's reputation as a tourist attraction.

Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in Worcester. Where it is reported or identified, we will take every possible action to eradicate it and bring offenders to justice.

I believe that Worcester is a great place and I am proud of my local policing team and all of the officers and police staff that contribute to making Worcester a safe place to live work or visit.

ANDREW SMITH,

Geographic Inspector,

Worcester.