A HOODED child caused a grave response from a local shopkeeper (Branded a hoodie - aged two, The Press, January 22).

Given the fact that hooded troublemakers had allegedly targeted this shop in the past, this attitude was perhaps understandable.

Only recently another York shop has suffered from ruthless thieves who left a man severely injured.

It does raise the argument that perhaps more and more now, we are living under a siege of fear from urban terrorists.

When I walk around York and its suburbs, its beauty can be marred. I have observed vandalised or stolen bikes; burned-out cars; street or pub fights.

I feel frustrated at the public lack of concern or the poor, ill-timed police response.

Are police, magistrates and social workers doing enough to reverse this depressing trend?

It is, however, up to us all (police, judges and members of the public) to work together if we want to build a better future for our children and ourselves.

Or do we all want to continue to live under this hooded fear of our society?

Phil Shepherdson, Chantry Close, York.