There would appear to be no theft; no evidence so far of any conflict or dispute and no other obvious of motive for this attack.

By all accounts Paul Smith was a gentle giant, well-known and popular.
What is increasingly worrying is that this type of violence is becoming more dramatic and more regular, but it cannot go on.

The attacks, violence and vandalism are becoming more prevalent and one might imagine that it is because an already over-stretched police force are unable to make any real impact on the street.

Well, given the cirmstances that is true, but then again, 50 police on the street every night with stop and search powers, isn't an answer either.

This is a society thing and that is where it must be addressed. And society starts at home. Quite literally, the reason for this breakdown is because there is a breakdown in the family unit.

And it not just the parents' fault. I remember the Thatcher years when factories closed down in the north and Norman Tebbit said: 'get on your bike and find work'.

That and the cost of living forcing both parents to become bread winners, in my view, forced the change to families and subsequently the
denuding of parental control or their young children.

It is virtually impossible for a man (or woman) on an average wage to support their family with their partner at home.

I worry that we have createed an irreversable situation, where we are forced to accept a 'big brother' government which takes away people's self-discipline and respect for others, a zero tolerance...just to keep law and order in place.

I would be very interested in hearing your views. Please write your Letter to the Editor, to 2 Albert Street, RUgby, Warwickshire, CV21 2RS.
Or click here to email me.