SIR – I fail to understand how the role of the police and crime commissioner is going to enhance and improve the management and service delivery of any police area in the UK.

What difference will the role bring to that previously undertaken by the local police authority and its predecessor the local watch committee?

These bodies, comprising members of the mainstream political parties, were well served by local councillors who had an understanding of local policing needs and to whom, as I understand it, the chief constable was accountable.

The locally elected citizens serving on these groups represented their electorate and their only remuneration was by way of expenses.

What do we have now? A commissioner drawing a huge salary, creating a structure that does not appear to be based on local needs or understanding; the provision of an office, staffing and a deputy at further cost to the electorate (you and me, folks).

I applaud the Worcester News for trying to raise a debate about both the need and process by which this deputy is apparently to be appointed.

I did not vote at the commissioner elections.

This was the first time that I have not voted since being eligible to do so some 50 years ago.

I strongly disagree with the whole concept of police commissioners.

I do not believe it improves local accountability, indeed, I believe that the contrary is true.

DAVID SKELTON

Worcester