I meet many residents across the Borough who are proud of their local areas and who take extra steps to ensure that they are good places to live. However, it is very disappointing when a small minority seek to destroy things for the rest, as is happening in Sussex Square, Walcot.

As you may have seen in this newspaper, a small number of people are indulging in anti-social behaviour, seeking to undermine the community shop and library there. I would like to praise Peter Mallinson and the ward councillors, particularly Steve Allsopp, for refusing to bow to this intimidation. The council and the police have a role, and I am raising the problem with senior officers. Those who commit criminal acts, such as vandalism, criminal damage and, graffiti, or indulge in other forms of anti-social behaviour should be brought to justice. We must recognise that we cannot have officers on duty in every place 24/7 The bitter irony of this problem is that there are far more people in Walcot East sickened by this anti-social behaviour than commit it.

Yet, many understandably are afraid that even if they stand up to these petty hoodlums, they will be alone. The criminals know this fear, and they exploit it. If we all retreat behind our doors or believe we can leave the solution to someone else, they have won. There is an alternative. We have to accept responsibility as individuals and we can act as a community to protect those good things that we value. For example, we need to accumulate evidence so that the police can take criminals to court. You can use the police non-emergency number 101 or you can contact the council’s Streetsmart team about graffiti 445501.

Or contact our One Stop Shop: customerservices@swindon.gov.uk or 445500.

You can call the 101 number to report those who commit other criminal acts such as anti-social behaviour to the police. If you prefer, you can use the Crime Stoppers line 0800 555111 as those of you who are the victims of anti-social behaviour deserve the protection of anonymity.

The second challenge does require a little more courage. Let me be clear, I am not advocating vigilante behaviour. What I am suggesting is that we all support each other.

The more active we are in our own streets and local public spaces, the better.

These belong to all of us, not just to the minority who would misuse them.