DESPITE statistical evidence which makes Kent police one of the top performing forces in the country, more than 88 per cent of residents in the Tunbridge Wells area are worried about becoming a victim of crime.

This was revealed in a recent survey conducted by the Conservative MP for Tunbridge Wells, Archie Norman.

He said: "Just under half of those questioned have modified their daily activities in some way because of their fear of crime.

"We all know that resources are scarce and that the police are under pressure to spread their resources, but when that happens it is the rural areas that lose out. As a result people in many rural communities feel they live in a police free zone."

Mr Norman raised these points during Question Time in the House of Commons and also later at a meeting with residents of Goudhurst, Lamberhurst and Horsmonden residents which was attended by police officers.

Concerns raised at the meeting included more visible policing, a continuity of police officers, a better knowledge of the local area, and quicker responses to emergency calls.

One resident complained that he had waited more than an hour for police to respond to a call reporting that a burglary was taking place at his house.

The police said they wished to see more community support officers in villages. These would be funded by local communities and would ensure a greater visible police presence.