AS a retired police officer I am only too aware of the demands made on patrolling officers to attend the numerous incidents that arise requiring their attention.

However, I do agree with Mr Stephens (Evening News, Friday, February 11) that the response to his call for assistance to an incident involving firearms being used in the street was appalling.

Air weapons as used in this incident can be extremely dangerous.

The power of them is demonstrated by the fact that they were powerful enough to smash the toughened glass in the rear window of his car.

If the pellets had hit any of the children taking refuge behind his car, what injuries would have been caused?

It is not so long ago that the mere mention of firearms being seen in a public place would have prompted an immediate response even if it meant diverting an officer from another incident.

The police spokesperson stated that the response to the incident, some two hours after the initial call, was well within the required timeframe for incidents of that nature.

I would be interested to know what the required timeframe for incidents of this nature are?

W MURRAY,

St John's,

Worcester.