THE scheme for victims of crime to be allowed input into court proceedings before sentencing of offenders is to be welcomed.

The evidence they give will only concern the effect the crime has had on their lives, the trauma, fear, medical condition, etc. The judge will note this, alongside the injuries, or financial loss, sustained during the incident. It may be that a written statement will suffice.

As a member of Victim Support, who served for three years and on 750 cases, I have seen the devastation and wreckage left by the dregs of society and feel the victim should be allowed to say how they have been affected.

This is their chance to get retribution and strike a blow for justice.

K SOWERBUTTS, Southwood Drive, Baxenden.