I read with interest the letter by Adam Renouf (August 18) regarding the article about the work of the police community support officers (PCSOs).

There has never been any intention on the part of Sussex Police to mislead the public in relation to the role and responsibilities of PCSOs.

It has always been made clear their main function is to provide reassurance to the public through high-visibility uniform patrol, something which over the years, police officers have failed to achieve due to other policing responsibilities.

In this regard, the PCSOs have been completely successful. The majority of the public have seen them in an extremely positive light.

They have also undertaken other lower-level, time-consuming work for the police, enabling officers to be more effective. The insignia worn by PCSOs clearly differentiates them from police officers.

On occasions, PCSOs tackle issues around low-level anti-social behaviour.

There is always the potential for such situations to escalate and therefore it makes sense to ensure such officers are given protective equipment.

It is unfortunate Mr Renouf fails or refuses to see the benefits of the PCSOs. I can assure your readers he is very much in the minority in this regard.

-Superintendent Kevin Moore, Brighton and Hove Police