• IT’S tragic in an enlightened era of space travel and computer technology, advances which are often a miracle mystery for the older generation, that notices have to be posted in charity shops “Beware of Thieves”.

The effect of crimes of dippers on victims I’ve known for many years. It’s nasty, mean and constantly on the minds of those falling foul.

It was brought home to me once again recently when an elderly lady (87), who has devoted her daily life to the care of a brain-damaged wheelchair-bound paraplegic male who is unable to communicate in any way, became a police crime statistic.

They know lots of people in Kentish Town, having lived locally for years. And they were, until a few weeks ago, familiar figures in that area.

The lady and (she believes) the loved one she pushes about got a real kick being out and about in Kentish Town Road. But then a group of female thieves struck.

The pair – obviously targeted after leaving the post office where enough cash had been withdrawn for their needs for the month – had bag and contents including many keepsake items ruthlessly stolen from the rear of the chair in a charity shop close by.

This cruel and heartless act has put the lady completely off what had been lovely trips to Kentish Town Road. There they used to visit shops, chat to business people and neighbours and old friends. This is so much more than a crime number.

DAVID ST GEORGE
NW1