RE: 'Proof We Have Too Few Police' (News Shopper, November 14).

A few weeks ago, during a party in Biggin Hill, police were called to an incident. Two lads had left the party and had driven off in a car. The car smashed into two or three parked vehicles further up the road.

A passenger in the vehicle ran away from the scene followed by some angry residents and a police car.

The officer caught the boy outside the property where the party was being held. Before long, other party revellers spilled onto the street demanding to know what the policeman was doing with their mate.

The policeman was alone with about 20 to 30 youths around him. A resident dialled 999 to ask for more officers and was told all spare units were on their way.

One police car with one officer turned up. Luckily, two off-duty officers who lived nearby were ready to assist if required.

Fortunately, it wasn't. But what would have happened if the youths had turned nasty? How on Earth could one or two police officers be expected to remain in control of the situation?

Yes, let's close the police station in Biggin Hill. What a bright idea, that was! Biggin Hill appears to be a forgotten town, a sleepy hollow where nothing happens.

Well, come and look at the vandalism. Come and look at the dumped or burnt-out cars. Visit us on a Friday or Saturday night and see the kids so spaced out on drugs and drink they can hardly stand up.

Come and see if you can actually catch one smashing beer bottles in the road or breaking into another doomed vehicle.

Due to recent activity, there have been more police cars but the youngsterswill just keep their heads down for a few days until interest in the area decreases giving them carte blanche to kick-off again.

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December 5, 2001 11:00