Turkey trouble

Inspector Rex Matthews of Hailsham police said the number of household rows requiring police assistance this festive season less than a dozen was actually lower than anticipated.

'At this time of year we always expect a number of domestic incidents,' he said. 'In one case, a whole turkey was thrown across the kitchen, but there was nothing particularly serious.'

Insp Matthews went on to say that the start of 2003 will be marked by a clampdown on wanted criminals in Hailsham and surrounding villages.

Those who have skipped court appearances, failed to answer bail orders or are known to have committed crimes will be targeted by officers in the first part of January.

'I would urge anyone in this area who knows they are wanted by us to submit themselves as soon as possible,' said Insp Matthews. 'If they do not, we will soon be knocking on their door.'