I WOULD like to express my concern over the reliability of the 999 service.

We had reason to use this system on the 3rd - 4th - 5th and 6th of January, and the best I can say about it is that it is no better than an ordinary phone call.

On the first night we were told that we had not made a call. This was after the damage had been done, and a lady's windows had been smashed.

The second night was a replica of the first night, and the third night was going the same way until we phoned a friend and we finally received some help.

When the police came they were very helpful but they can do nothing until they are told to attend. In the meantime the lady in question was sitting on the floor of the house in terror with all the lights out so the 'terrorists' would leave her alone.

Would you believe that in this day and age in this country some one could be treated like this? If it wasn't for the help of ex councillor Marlene Quinn we would have been left deserted. I must say, however, that Helena Housing responded with extreme speed and sympathy.

The outcome of this story is that the lady in question may have to move house because nothing can be done to protect her. Which is typical of the situation today, the victim has to move whilst the perpetrators get away with it.

EDDIE McConville, St Helens Federation of Tenants and Residents Association.