I READ with interest the comments of Peter Scott regarding his disappointing experience when reporting a crime to York police (Reporting crime left me stunned, readers' letters, May 15).

I have recently reported the theft of my husband's expensive mountain bike to the police. This, luckily, was the first time I have had to contact them since moving into my own home, paying full council tax and police surcharges, seven years ago. After being promised a visit by an officer to take further details, I had an admittedly premature feeling of satisfaction.

I even had a glimmer of hope, naive as I may be, that with the substantial evidence I could provide, the culprits could be caught, and possibly even that the bike could be returned.

I am still waiting for that visit, days later, with any vital evidence being washed away in the recent downpours and little chance of any investigation or outcome.

I understand that the police must be constantly inundated by reports of minor thefts such as this, and all other serious crimes.

However it does beg the question - to what extent must you be affected by crime in York before getting the attention and expected services of the police?

Emma Pagan,

Poplar Tree Gardens,

Heworth, York.

Updated: 10:54 Wednesday, May 17, 2006