Police manpower for tackling crime in the Somerset area was "barely adequate'', the Deputy Police Commissioner admitted yesterday.

But Mr. Michael Mylod pointed out moves were under way to boost Police presence there.

The area would benefit from plans to switch officers from clerical jobs to "normal operational duties'', he said.

The pledge came after The Royal Gazette received reports of concern about Police coverage of the area.

It is understood "single-crew'' Police patrols have been operating recently.

And Police were hard-pressed to deal with one incident in which fighting broke out among about 40 youths.

Some businesses -- who did not wish to be named -- said they feared their trade was being hit because of drug dealing.

Trouble spots were Broome Street and Scott's Hill Road, and the entrance to Somerset Cricket Club.

"I think it affects everybody's business in the area,'' said one trader.

He added: "I think everybody would like an increase in Police presence. It's getting out of hand. The whole crime situation is getting out of hand across the Island. I think the Police do the best they can.'' The man had no doubt his store was losing customers because of drug dealers nearby.

"On the whole, most of them are good guys who have nothing better to do than hang around.'' Earlier this year, The Royal Gazette reported a string of robberies and assaults in Sandys Parish had left local businessmen and residents in fear.

They believed drug addiction was at the root of the community's problem.

Complained one resident: "Guys are carrying knives and machetes.'' Another businesswoman said: "I've been here seven-and-a-half years and things do leave a lot to be desired. We have no routine in our store. That way we hope to avoid any problems.

"But we're not worried sick because business is better than last year.'' Opposition Progressive Labour Party MP Mr. Walter Roberts accepted lack of proper policing was a problem.

Police manpower `barely adequate' Yesterday, Police admitted they were aware of concerns among businesses in the Somerset area, and were dealing with them.

They said they would step up patrols, resources permitting.

Mr. Mylod, however, pointed out the Police manpower in the Somerset area was "not down''.

"It is constant.'' Mr. Mylod was asked what the current strength of the Police in the area was, and whether it was considered adequate.

He replied: "The strength is one Chief Inspector, six sergeants, and 36 constables.

"This is considered barely adequate, and we seek to improve it through an ongoing programme of civilianisation.'' These manpower figures relate to the strength of the western division, covering Warwick, Southampton and Sandys.

Mr. Mylod revealed there were moves to shore up Police presence in Somerset.

Would Somerset benefit from the civilianisation programme, under which officers would be transferred from clerical jobs to operational duties.

"Yes, it will,'' replied Mr. Mylod.