Letter: Police in trouble

Sir: As I was leaving my local church with my family recently, I remonstrated with a group of youths who had occupied the fire escape. Their language and behaviour were appalling. In response they gave vent to a lot of "lip" and then I was spat on.

I used my mobile phone to contact the Gainsborough police, which has a large station just two minutes' drive from the church. The attitude of the lady at the end of the phone was "So what?" I phoned Gainsborough police again later from home and spoke to the duty sergeant. I was told that if I wished to make a complaint a police officer would be sent to my home.

It seems ridiculous that it is not possible for the police to assist when an incident is occurring but is possible to send officers to spend valuable time taking statements.