I ALWAYS thought Prince Andrew to be the one member of the royal family most in touch with the public, until I read the article 'Royal row over police uniform' (March 6).

Who does he think he is? What gives him the right to give a senior member of the police force a public reprimand just because he wasn't wearing a formal tunic for his visit?

As a York man I am disgusted that this man carries the title Duke of York. Is he trying to emulate his father for his rude and inappropriate comments?

I agree with Chief Constable Della Cannings' comments on ceremonial uniforms. Far too much money, time and effort is wasted on the senior members of the royal family, let alone minor ones.

Police time would be better spent catching criminals than standing in line for visits such as this.

Did anyone think to criticise the Prince's choice of tie?

Kevin Neale,

Turnberry Drive,

Acomb, York.

...I AND many other police officers agree with the comments made by the Duke of York on his recent visit to North Yorkshire.

The demise of the smart police tunic was not welcomed in favour of what became known disparagingly as the "Matalan" fleece jacket.

The Chief Constable will be aware that not all forces have changed and many still retain the smart tunic. North Yorkshire has retained a stock of these for issue on special occasions.

The only additional item we now carry, in addition to handcuffs and a baton, is a small can of CS spray all of which are retained on a purpose-designed belt. None of these items require storage in a jacket as suggested, nor is it particularly weather-proof.

There was a time when police officers looked smart, were uniform in appearance, had somewhere to display their medal ribbons, and all without detriment to comfort or personal protection.

The tatty fleeces and often dirt-marked high visibility jackets give a poor impression.

Name and address supplied.

Updated: 11:04 Tuesday, March 09, 2004