SADLY, here in Devizes, we have to put with a ‘fortress-like’ police station, a stern edifice, almost, you could say, a local ‘Colditz’.
Despite a police station car park amply filled with police vehicles and staff cars alike, access is barred by a formidable, heavy, wooden and always-locked door.
The only public access is by means of a very poor outside telephone link, and that immediately adjacent to a heavily trafficked road. 
With a continuous noise generated by passing traffic, it is difficult, if not impossible, to converse, especially when dealing with a rather disinterested voice from within and from experience, often receiving  a less than helpful response.
When suggesting to a local councillor the possible provision of an open door and public counter, the response was to give me with a list of retailers who, so say, will co-operate, should an emergency occur.
Most unfortunately, children, pensioners and visitors alike are totally unaware of such an arrangement.
With the present provisions, I fear for a child becoming lost, the fate of a pensioner when in trouble or even a visitor when in time of need.
In the days of yore, one could always rely on an open door, a friendly face and the feeling of being cared for.
It appears today, other interests seemingly take precedence.
MAURICE PALFREY
Anstie Court
Wharf Street
Devizes