I read your article on Hertfordshire Police where Inspector Phillip Wright is to lead a National scheme on what you describe as A new style of policing. I am utterly amazed at the use of the word New to describe the idea. On November 1, 1962 - yes over 40

I read your article on Hertfordshire Police where Inspector Phillip Wright is to lead a National scheme on what you describe as A new style of policing.

I am utterly amazed at the use of the word New to describe the idea.

On November 1, 1962 - yes over 40 years ago - I was appointed as the Neighbourhood Officer for the Haldens neighbourhood of Welwyn Garden City. Many other officers throughout Hertfordshire were also appointed as neighbourhood officers in each part of the County. The less populated parts of the County had their own Outstation officers, for example Pirton and Offley each had their own officers living in a police house on their patch. Each officer was expected to spend some time in post, getting to know the local population.

It seems that the wheel has now turned full circle and the Local Bobby is to be re-invented. But New it is not! Good luck to the officers.

TONY MARSHALL