THE problem of street beggars in York is nothing new and was addressed by The Press some years ago.

It was determined that giving money was counter productive. It simply encourage more individuals to sit on their backside with hand outstretched. Some aggressive, some passive, but all unwelcome and unnecessary.

As word got round that rich pickings were to be had in this busy tourist city there were beggars everywhere.

It was found many were from outside the area and in receipt of benefits.

All were able bodied and quite capable of walking to the shop to buy another can of lager and packet of cigarettes after collecting a cap full of small change.

The solution was found to be a zero-tolerance approach. Police were proactive. Genuine cases were referred to the agencies who could help them.

Others were made to understand that street begging in York was not an option. If they persisted they were arrested.

Those purporting to be busking by sucking and blowing through a cheap harmonica were required to have some talent and entertainment value.

There is no need for any clever solution. Just reintroduce the scheme that worked perfectly well last time.

Matthew Laverack, Lord Mayors Walk, York