ARE we surprised at this new spate of what can only be described as criminal damage to our oldest local landmarks because I am not, annoyed and disappointed yes.

Why? Because WE as a community are hamstrung in every direction we take at stopping this type of thing occurring.

If a member of the public remonstrates with these yobs then all that happens is a mouthful of abuse.

If its reported to the authorities then our liberal-minded police force are powerless to intervene, not because the local copper does not wish to but because their superiors say it is hard to get a conviction, besides what is the point compared to the punishment they will receive.?

The majority of the time it is the same mindless yobs that are known to the police anyway and know the law.

Who do I blame? The first is parental control, both myself and my wife always knew where our daughter was.

From an early age she also knew right from wrong.... so do these morons but it's just fun isn't it? Not harming anyone.

It starts from there and then moves on to pulling up flowers and other "minor irritations" then as they get older, hanging around corners, quite often drink is involved.

If those householders do or say anything then they are abused.

If they physically try to stop them or touch them in any way then the law comes down upon that citizen.

So what happens? Nothing.

We have lost our right to control our own society thanks to wishy washy liberalism.

I am not advocating violence but surely we must take back our right to control these yobs.

Basically, cross the line that society imposes and you will be punished, without the liberals standing up and saying "It's not their fault they are a product of a broken home, bad upbringing" or the worst of all "He's a good kid really," Yes, well that's why he/she is in trouble then isn't it?

I believe it was the Jesuits who said give me the boy until he is seven and I will give you the man.

LES CADE, St Martins Drive, Feniscowles, Blackburn.