THE horrific murders of Claire and Diane Sanderson, and of James and Joan Britton, have rightly and understandably shocked us all.

Murder is the most serious crime. But it is also one of the rarest in England, and especially so in this part of the country.

Therefore, it is right that the newspapers, television and radio bulletins have been dominated by news of the crimes that have happened here in North Yorkshire.

As the man responsible for policing in this area, I share everyone's sense of horror, of outrage, of concern. That concern is deepened by the knowledge that we have yet to find the person police need to speak to about these crimes. I know that until he is found the anxiety will remain with us all.

My main role in this inquiry is to ensure we all feel as safe as possible at this worrying time. That's why I have instructed my officers to get out and about throughout the area, to talk to residents, to be on hand to answer questions.

A large part of that activity is taking place in the two places directly affected. But everyone is worried, and I am trying to ensure high-profile patrols, on foot and in car, are taking place throughout the area.

The meeting we held on Thursday with representatives of the two communities directly affected will, I hope, provide another important link between the police and the public. From speaking to residents, I believe it will help in a small way, and we will continue to meet for as long as is necessary until we all feel that bit safer.

We are all desperate to hear news that Mr Hobson has been traced. I know from what I see in and around my police station that every officer, every member of support staff, is doing everything they can to help deliver that news.

You also know that experts in a range of different fields throughout the country are working alongside the police in North Yorkshire to ensure that news comes through quickly.

Until then, I know that people will remain rightly concerned. We all know that murder is - thankfully - very rare. We also know that, according to the latest sets of figures, crime rates are falling. None of that knowledge may help at times like these. But I take some comfort knowing that, and knowing that everything is being done to bring this inquiry to a safe and swift conclusion.

You can play your part.

There are simply not enough police officers in the country, let alone North Yorkshire, to search every square inch, to be on every street corner.

We need you to be our eyes and ears. Please do not approach Mr Hobson if you see him; but do ring us straight away. And if you believe you know anything about his whereabouts, or have any other information relating to these appalling crimes, don't hesitate for a moment longer; ring us immediately.

My colleague Detective Superintendent Javad Ali has said repeatedly at news conferences that Mr Hobson will be found. He's right. He will be found. And we are all doing everything possible to get that news to you as quickly as possible.

Please also know that life continues. Policing continues. Your safety remains our priority, and while we have rightly dedicated many officers to work on the murder inquiries, your other needs are important to us, and I am trying to do all I can to ensure that they are met.

Chief Supt Tim Madgwick

Divisional Commander,

Central Area,

North Yorkshire Police,

Fulford Road, York.

Updated: 09:24 Saturday, July 24, 2004