Last Tuesday, in Blatchington Road, Hove, I came across a store manager and his security guard struggling with a shoplifter.

He was a big man and putting up a good fight. I went straight in to lend a hand.

I do not see myself as a big hero. I have been on the receiving end of theft and I also object to paying 10p in the pound for my goods because stores have to recoup the shoplifting losses from somewhere.

To the large crowd that gathered, cheering the shoplifter on - and wanting to know why I was poking my nose in - I have nothing but contempt for the lot of you.

You would be the first to complain if it was your house burgled or your car broken into.

My special contempt is for the two elderly ladies who were concerned that we might be hurting the thief.

Had it occurred to you that the man we arrested was part of the reason why old people like you cannot walk the streets in safety?

How can you expect young people to respect the elderly when you criticise a member of the public who assists in the arrest of a thief caught in the act?

Next time, it might be your handbag he snatches. Do not come crying to me if he does.

-Name and address supplied