Editor

I was horrified when I went to perform my civic duty and vote. I looked at the voting form for the Police and Crime Commissioner and each of the candidates was affiliated to a political party.

Since the inception of the Bow Street Runners in 1749, the concept of policing has been held at its core the concept of upholding the laws of the land without fear or favour and most certainty as an apolitical body.All through world conflicts and national emergencies, the police dealt with any situation within the remit of their powers under extant legislation.

Governments had influence over the activities of the police to ensure their actions remained independent in all circumstances.Serving officers were barred from certain organisations, particularly radical political groups, and those same officers took pride in their independent and impartial status.

Now, you represent a political party if you take on the mantle of Police and Crime Commissioner.A very sad day for policing.

Allan Phillips New Quay

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