With a surfeit of old-world charm and a population of 500 people, the Channel Island of Sark is widely considered a tranquil paradise. But a warning from its head of police suggests that the tiny British territory’s unspoilt charm is under threat.
Mike Fawson, the island’s outgoing elected connétable (constable), has complained that the island is “awash” with criminals and has demanded that he and his small force be equipped with pepper spray and batons.
He said they were struggling to cope with crime such as drug trafficking, alcohol-fuelled violence and drink-driving — cars are banned but there are tractors, bicycles and horses and carts.
PC Fawson said: “Sark in the past — and now — has been awash with people who have criminal convictions,