Kent police have started "an exciting new venture" announced Simon Redman, their Director of Support Services. The project, which cost £10,000 to set up, is an online shop expected "to meet demand for new police themed products" and "hopefully raise money to put back into [the] community".

One resident from a crime ridden estate in Ramsgate said "We never seem to see a proper copper round our way", a sentiment shared by other residents. But spending £10K on a shop rather than policing isn't the thing that disturbs me about the story. I'm sure the £10K will be recouped in time and the amount, considering historical spending levels on public sector IT projects, is a drop.

The disturbing thing in this story for me is the message being sent out on some of the merchandise. Take the bib below with the slogan "I've been inside for 9 months". Not only is this destined to become the latest chav baby accessory but it completely trivialises the prison experience. Is this the message the police should be sending out?

By the way, the bib is already out of stock, but you could buy the hip flask. Fill it with your favorite tipple, bring it with you in the car (??).