FORMER Home Secretary Jack Straw got a rough ride when he paid a visit to talk about anti-social behaviour.

He spent the morning talking with Gravesham community activists at the Ebbsfleet Rainbow Centre, Rose Street, Northfleet. Mr Straw, who ran the Home Office between 1997 and 2001, spent more than two hours being quizzed by residents and councillors on crime and anti-social behaviour.

Issues discussed included how to reduce the number of teenage gangs on the streets and what residents can do to combat the fear of crime. Centre manager Anne Jenkins says the former Home Secretary heard views on an issue residents feel strongly about.

She said:"People got some very important views across.

"We talked about things like Asbos and how we think the area is being policed.

"It was just a shame it turned into a political thing about Tony Blair when he got outside."

Gravesham councillor Andrea Webb, who sits on the community safety advisory panel, says she is angry the police did not attend.

She said: "We did invite the police and I am disappointed they didn't come along.

"It was also a shame Mr Straw was quizzed about the Prime Minister instead of focusing on what we were all there for."

Ward councillor for Northfleet south Cllr John Loughlin says he was shocked by the lack of a police presence.

He said: "Residents want more officers patrolling the streets to reduce the fear of crime.

"When the police don't turn up it gives out the wrong message to residents.

"I was expecting Mr Straw to be bombarded with questions about the Prime Minister.

"I think Tony Blair has done a great job as Prime Minister but I think it is time he left gracefully."

Kent police borough commander Chief Superintendent Gary Beautridge said: "We apologise for not attending the event.

"We acknowledge how important this meeting was for the area and will continue to work with local authorities on tackling crime and anti- social behaviour."

Mr Straw, who is now Leader of the House of Commons, said: "It was great to go to Northfleet to talk to people and get feedback on how they are tackling issues such as anti-social behaviour and crime and the progress they are making."

The event was organised as part of the Labour Party's Let's Talk initiative.