I WAS deeply saddened to read the front-page article in the Gazette (February 13). Saddened partly because of its content, but equally because of its appearance at all.

I do not know the young man who was the subject of the report, nor do I know if he has committed any crime or not.

My point is that at this stage none of us can know that.

We know only that an allegation was made, that he was subsequently arrested on suspicion of a possible crime and that no charges have yet been made.

Given that investigations are continuing and as yet no case has been brought against him, let alone a finding of guilt, it seems wholly inappropriate to publish such an extensive and high profile report, complete with photo of him.

Our justice system ostensibly operates on the belief that we are deemed innocent until proven guilty. Let us remember this, whatever the alleged crime, and let our Press reflect that belief.

Carolyn Law

Malvern

We believe publication was a matter of public interest, and that arrests made in secret – regardless of the alleged offence – strike at the heart of Britain's principles of open justice.

The Editor