Sentences such as these should be served consecutively

THE suggestion, in last weeks Hinckley Times, of a commemorative plaque for the Blaby pub which played a pivotal part in establishing DNA screening as a major tool in forensic evidence gathering is not without merit.

Perhaps more worthy of an accolade is the unnamed, astute and public-spirited woman who realised the significance of the conversation she overheard when Colin Pitchfork attempted to persuade an acquaintance to provide a blood sample in his name.

Her action, in alerting the police to her suspicions, was almost certainly the single most important factor in the successful prosecution of this evil double murderer.

Reflecting on Pitchfork’s wicked crimes brings into sharp focus the harrowing possibility that, subject to the deliberations of the Parole Board, he may very soon be scheduled for release from an open prison and free to enjoy a life forever denied to his teenage victims.

To the families and friends of those two tragic girls this must seem an especially horrific prospect and a most poignant injustice.

Colin Pitchfork committed two brutal and merciless murders, each deserving a full life sentence.

If legislation had been enacted to ensure, in cases of multiple murders, that the sentences of the court were to be served consecutively rather than concurrently then at the very least the anguish of the families at the prospect of his imminent release would be deferred for many years to come.

May I suggest that it would be an opportunity for local MPs -of whatever political persuasion-to demonstrate their commitment to natural justice by promoting such a law, perhaps as a private members bill.

If successful, the result would be of far more significance and enduring benefit than any plaque, blue or otherwise.

Andrew Yardley, Burbage