Dear Communities,
 
There has been another development regarding one of my neighbours that reflects little progress since my worried report of 2021; Roger Fox' associates at 99 Connops Way continue, it is alleged, to deal drugs in and around the neighbourhood (latest reported to ASB, 26th February 2026) - one consequence of the constant movement, likely considered a low priority, is the front lawn rendered a near mud-bath.
 
The most serious issue is the latest threat to life that occurred on Friday (27th); I attended the Church' weekly drop-in and, having already mentioned to Vicar Glen that I was reluctant to approach M Fox (with any restrictions now lifted), I nevertheless made an attempt at communication in the corridor as M Fox left the lounge. I asked if M Fox would consider making alternative arrangements rather than toileting 'is dog in front of my kitchen window - the reaction was, if memory serves precisely, "I'll smash you" (with a clenched fist) and, a few seconds later, "I'll kill you". Reverend Ruffle and regular guest 'Cxxxx' were at least part-witnesses to this altercation.
 
1) Though The Lye is largely a lawless neighbourhood, isn't such reaction disproportionate? I perform in a toilet bowl, whereas this dog performs in the communal area to the rear of number 99 (which prevents other residents enjoying the utilities) and to the front of number 99, in Connops Way, which also represents my rear! This is thoroughly unpleasant, improper and uncivilised behaviour, on the part of the owner, when the dog is inessential (as adopted) and other pets (such as an indoor cat) are available - this constitutes a clear breach of M Fox' tenancy agreement (where pets should not annoy neighbours) and a likely breach of Common Law. Given that the nation is effectively at war with Russia and, as at this morning (1st March), according to the Prime Minister, indulging 'defensive operations' in the Middle East, isn't it time the British, collectively, grew-up?
 
2) One thousand pounds, as a minimum, is available to 'encourage a resolution' to this issue - would the Council again consider mediation or negotiation (to include the possibility of a proximity meeting)?
 
3) I was again disappointed that the Council's Healthy Communities team, as 'Make It Happen', were absent on Friday - this arrangement seems to have been suspended; why is this?
 
David Austin
999 High Street
Lye Village
Stourbridge
 
PS: No dog was present at Friday's drop-in, so I was able to stay for tea, even chicken and vegetable soup; I joked at the counter that the whole reminded me of visiting my aunt's when I was stuffed with cakes (which can hardly be considered as child abuse) to stop me from talking! As an inclusive occasion, I took the risk of sitting 'at the woman's table' (where many seemed unaware of the fact that The Dog is bred, not a wild animal, but regularly attacks babies) and made an aside that the toddler present was being stuffed with chocolate biscuits, probably for similar reasons, but was apparently not well received - I must repeat that it is not my place to comment, directly, on how parents should rear their children! Still, wherever a chap goes, an opinion is rarely welcomed - does 'the gob' have any use other than as a receptacle for a nipple, a dummy or a chocolate biscuit?