Police urged to pull out of 'Luton-bashing' TV show

Luton Borough Council has asked Bedfordshire Police to stop working with television show 24 Hours In Police Custody because, the council says, it is damaging the town's reputation.

A leaked draft letter urges the chief constable and the police and crime commissioner to end the force’s participation in the Channel 4 programme.

The letter describes the show as a "kick in the teeth" that fuels "Luton-bashing".

A spokesperson for the force and the commissioner defended the show as a platform to "educate, build trust and encourage people to consider a career in policing".

They added: "It allows us to raise important issues such as male violence against women and girls, to build confidence, particularly with vulnerable victims, many of whom have come forward after certain episodes, and to show the incredible work of police officers and staff to keep the public safe.

"However, we do appreciate that other partners will have their own opinion on the programme. Therefore, Chief Constable Trevor Rodenhurst and PCC John Tizard are listening to all views before we decide whether to commit to future series."

The documentary series, which is approaching its 10th anniversary, primarily follows the Bedfordshire force as it investigates crimes in the town.

The council confirmed the letter, seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, was "a proposed joint letter which would be sent to the police with the signatures of a number of local organisations that support its content".

A spokesperson for the council said: "While we fully acknowledge that the programme brings some positive publicity for the police, a number of people from across our voluntary, community and business sectors share our concerns about the negative impacts of the programme."

The letter says: “Every week when this programme airs to millions of people across the UK, it fuels the 'Luton-bashing' we have become accustomed to, which further damages our reputation.

"This kind of negativity affects our community’s sense of identity and purpose, in limiting their perception of their own lives, relationships and opportunities.

"It's also a kick in the teeth to all of us who work hard every day to support our residents and are trying to take our town forward.

"We feel that it is time for Luton to end this negative relationship with wider audiences and, if the programme is to continue, for another force to feature in it."

Channel 4 has been approached for comment.