All of us, police, Government, welfare are struggling, searching, to find a solution to the problem of feral youth gangs who are making us afraid.

Oh, we know how they have come about - the lack of discipline, break down of family life, no role models, but solving the dilemma? That's the hard bit.

These youngsters obviously feel a need to belong, to identify with or be part of a gang or organisation in order to be someone or maybe feel safe.

To make headway, we obviously must give them that security.

So, perhaps at a fairly early age, instead of planning to keep them at school longer we should invite - even make them join - not the army but something similar, where they would have mates, a bit of status, discipline, but most of all a chance.

There must be lots of retired professionals, soldiers, police, firemen who would jump at the opportunity to instill a sense of self worth and value.

Wouldn't it be cheaper and more effective than what is happening now?