WITH reference to the report headed 'Barn boy's theft' (July 28), the article refers to an 18-year-old youth apparently living in his father's hay barn admitting theft of three apples he ate which were intended for the horses!

It would appear that the full might of the law, involving the police, and the magistrates court have swung into action to ensure this heinous crime receives a suitable punishment.

I would hope that he is not transported to the colonies or was this only in the 17th century?

I wonder what will be the cost to the taxpayer, for the police, magistrates and no doubt solicitors involved.

It warms my heart that with the pursuit of terrorists rightly given high priority, our local police and judiciary system are looking after the apples!

JAMES EMSLEY, Hollin Way, Rawtenstall.