WHEN West Mercia police revealed its decision to target yobs in Warndon Villages, last Friday, we voiced reservations about the mechanics of naming and shaming proven culprits, but welcomed the principle of a change in approach.

It marked a shift from the days when the long arm of the law, in Worcester, was regarded as too short and slow to catch the yobs before they'd fled.

But it also highlighted a truth that's illustrated by two timely stories today.

Last week's street violence in Warndon has prompted a reaction which is both understandable and helps to perpetuate the problem.

Its victims don't want to be named. It means the yobs' unspoken threat that they'll come looking for retribution from anyone who talks is having its desired effect.

It's easy to say and hard to do, but we long for the day when one citizen takes a leaf out of the book of those women who saved a Malvern woman from her boyfriend's beating.

Their instinct was to act, not retreat. In many ways, it doesn't matter how many police swamp the streets on Friday nights, or how many yobs have their collar felt.

Police are only part of the crime-fighting force. The community has a greater part to play than ever before - to be the law's eyes and ears.

What matters is the people taking possession of their neighbourhoods again, by refusing to be intimidated.

We're not talking about vigilante action but standing up, being counted and letting the thugs know they won't win.

It's the way to deal with bullies. At some point, it must happen.