Letter: Elderly in fear of Hackney hooligans

Sir: I have lived in Hackney for 12 years. I have had similar experiences to Edna Phillips (report, 10 March). The policeman who arrived after I was threatened the first time shrugged his shoulders and said 'this is Hackney'. I fled one estate leaving my furniture behind. I am 62 and disabled and at the mercy, like other elderly people in this area, of any young hooligan who wants to attack us. I don't blame the police, they do their best, but are simply overwhelmed by the amount of crime and antisocial behaviour.

Why didn't people help Miss Phillips? Because they are callous, selfish and cowardly. Now that she is dead they put flowers outside her home.

Thank you for highlighting the situation on your front page.

Yours faithfully,

FRED KELLY

London, N1