I READ P Newton's views (Letters, September 1), which only clarifies the mass deterioration in Britain's police forces, particularly Lancashire Constabulary.

As far as members of the public are concerned, the police don't give a 'Castlemaine 4x.'

We have crime watch, vehicle watch, business watch, neighbourbood watch, DSS snoopers watch, CCTV camera watch, helicopter watch, pub watch and now shoplifters watch rammed down our throats with meaningless stickers and posters which are merely a ruse in a cleverly manipulated police PR exercise to con the public into a false sense of security.

The police hide behind the protection of their warrant cards, as they constantly abuse and neglect their powers and duties.

Don't insult the ratepaying public.

EVAN WILLIAMS, Willow Court, Carr Meadow, Clayton-le-Woods.

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