I WAS recently privileged to make a return trip to Singapore. What was very obvious was the complete absence of wailing sirens, which appears to be a feature of Darlington, a much smaller place.

There is no visible police present either and they have an enviable crime-free record.

Could this be because the punishment just about fits any crime committed? I particularly like the idea of using the cane and imprisonment, ie six strokes plus six months, allowing a month between strokes for recovery.

Their travel system is fantastic - integrated, very cheap, and very frequent - an oyster card-controlled road and rail system.

My first visit was by courtesy of the Royal Air Force in 1961. I have been back five times now. It is truly amazing the changes that have happened in that time, going from tin shelters to high rise flats with no signs of deprivation of any sort.

They have advanced further in 50 years than we have in 500.

A Telford, Darlington.