The recent coverage given by the Oxford Mail of senior officers at Thames Valley Police sending local criminals Christmas cards informing them that they are being watched, plus stories of reprobates being sent Christmas and birthday cakes, highlight a barmy and total waste of police resources.

It makes you wonder if TVP’s Chief Constable Sara Thornton has really got her finger on the pulse, to allow such a waste of ratepayers’ money – especially when she has been ordered to cut the cost of running the force next year.

I pause to wonder whether this “idiotic idea” will spread across the whole of the police structure in the UK. Or will someone in authority stamp on these ill-thought out gimmicks, and restore the faith of the general public, instead of laughing at this style of policing.

I believe I am not a lone voice in the wilderness of public opinion.

Michael Rhymes, Warborough Court, Kidlington