Police time is just numbered

ANYONE who doubts that the police are not working in the interests of the general South Yorkshire public need only look at statistics published today which give precise details of the force's activity during the last 12 months. Most important is the disclosure that officers stopped and searched twice as many people as in the previous 12 months.

But other figures also make you sit up and accept that the police's job deals with an increasingly violent society. For there was an 84 per cent increase in the number of searches carried out where police feared violence was imminent or weapons were being carried.

Reassuring as the statistics may be it is a sign of the growing politicisation of part of their work if they are compelled to spend time and resources analysing their activities so minutely. It shows just what strict controls are now placed over them - and how they have to spend valuable time crunching numbers rather than catching criminals.

Why all volunteers deserve our thanks

ONCE more we are delighted to report on the good work of volunteers who spent time and efforts for the good of the wider community. This time the volunteers are supporters of Wortley Top Forge Miniature Railway which was badly damaged by this summer's floods.

But after much hard work and team spirit, volunteers have got the facility back in working order in time for this Sunday's Top Forge Open Day, when doors will be thrown open to visitors to enjoy the attractions at the centre.

Enthusiasts are the backbone of Britain, putting in hours of work not only because it involves them in a personal interest but also because they are rewarded with the looks on the public's faces. They deserve a vote of thanks.

Back to trendy

AS we leave summer, here's yet another threat prompted by the seasonal washout...a Christmas Tree shortage! The monsoon conditions have left traditional pine trees struggling with Red band Needle Blight, which could affect festive supplies. So you'll just have to go into the loft and rescue that trendy 1960s tinsel tree after all!