Re. Letter from Gordon Cann.

I struggle to understand why seeking sponsorship would make policing more remote?

In fact, knowing the terrible funding for Dorset Police from central government (I believe it is now the lowest in the country), Mr Underhill talked about sponsorship a month before on April 16th.

I wrote the following from the Poole Harbour Watch Facebook page.

(Extract) With so many people obviously viewing this page and many with far better business contacts than I will ever have, I wonder if there is the possibility for some form of sponsorship, in the same way that in some areas of the country, police cars are sponsored by dealers.

That was relating to what I believe is a pressing need for a more suitable boat for the Marine Section.

I personally don’t believe any business willing to sponsor would expect some special treatment from the police.

As for a greater degree of accountability, what we have now seems to be a tremendous improvement.

From personal experience of the previous Police Authority, compared to the new system, letters/emails are now responded to and regular consultations take place.

I have been to a couple already, there is another in Poole on Friday. The PCC has attended a meeting of Poole Harbour Watch and spent a considerable time answering questions.

I know from the list I received there are similar consultation meetings to be held all around the county.

So, from me at least, I would have no problems with a police car carrying a sponsor’s name and I would be even more delighted to see a good seaworthy launch out on the waters of Poole Harbour or on any stretch of the Dorset Coast, regardless if it had a marina’s name or a boat manufacture’s name as the sponsor.

Of course we would all be happier if the Government said to the chief constable, “Sorry, we made a huge mistake, you can have your £22 million back... Oh and yes, we will provide you with a couple of sea-going launches the same as Hampshire!”

David Butcher, Chairman of Poole Harbour Watch. Redhill Crescent, Bournemouth