THE police force in Essex has come under criticism for enlisting the help of driving instructors to help catch burglars and spot other crimes.

Why? It’s perfectly reasonable that anyone out and about in their job be asked to keep an eye open for law-breakers, and a driving instructor’s job all takes place on local roads. There’s absolutely nothing wrong in trying to get ordinary citizens to aid the police, especially when police resources have been cut. Most people want criminals caught and punished and are willing to aid the process, keeping an eye open for wrongdoers where they can.