This is what you had to say about claims beggars were deterring people from visiting Chesterfield town centre

As reported last week, a woman contacted the Derbyshire Times to complain that beggars were putting people off visiting the high street.

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It is an offence to beg in a public place and Chesterfield Borough Council said it was working with police to tackle the problem.

On the streets of Chesterfield town centre this week, a number of people were willing to share their views on this subject with the Derbyshire Times.

Lyn Goodwin, 65, of Langwith Junction, said: “I feel sorry for beggars – they don’t put me off shopping in Chesterfield.

“I think there should be more help available for these people.”

Janet Claydon, 75, from Chesterfield, commented: “When people ask me for money I do find it a bit intrusive – but it’s not going to stop me coming into Chesterfield town centre.

“To be honest with you, I don’t see that many beggars here.”

Maureen Plant, of Chesterfield, said: “You see beggars everywhere, not just in Chesterfield – the issue isn’t that bad here.

“When I do see them I feel for them.”

Her husband Ray added: “It’s not a problem for me – it’s those poor people who’ve got the real problems.”

Ian Christian, 63, from Chesterfield, said: “I think it’s dreadful that people are being forced on to the streets in this day and age.

“Tory austerity has caused vast amounts of damage – and it’s getting worse.”

Commenting on our Facebook page, Donna Mellor said: “I’ve been approached walking through town, men asking me for loose change walking straight up to me on several occasions. That’s intimidating!”

Samantha Brailsford said: “It’s so heartbreaking – but some of these people do actually have homes.”

Tim Sadler added: “I work for a good number of old people and they are scared to go into town as they find it intimidating.”

Councillor Kate Sarvent, the council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “I can confirm that the council continues to work closely with the police to investigate any reports of begging in the area.”

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