Stapleton Road Mugging

[jules]

Sorry all, but I have to come to the defence of this area a little. I used to run The Chelsea Inn just up the road from Stapleton Road and it's not all bad. I never had any trouble living there in over 3 years.

I used Stapleton Road (and still do) at all times of the day and evening and never had a problem. But then maybe I was (in view of my knowledge of the area) a little more "street aware" than to stand around there with ú1,000 worth of kit on display. I don't say there is any excuse for NOT being able to stand around with thievable kit, but maybe it's not the wisest place in the world to do it.

Fact is, Easton is a very mixed and cosmopolitan community and whilst it has its problems, they are much the same as any inner city area nowadays. In general, everybody there gets on well and there are some great shops, pubs and a lot of good comminuty events / places to go visit. What used to amaze everyone that lived there was the negative attitude which outsiders generally have of the place.

It's not just Stapleton Road - a few years back I can remember people not leaving the train at Lawrence Hill because of drug dealers and other miscreants hanging about at night.

Unfortunately, it's a sad reflection on society today, but such things shouldn't tarnish an entire area through isolated events (bad as they might be) as they could (and do) happen anywhere. In the increasingly divided society we seem to live in, all it takes is a few sensible precautions and you won't get into difficulties. Sad I know, but unfortunately true.

These kind of stories also do nothing at all for persuading people to use the trains more - if the station was seen as more of a community resource and more people were using it, the muggers would go elsewhere. It's coming, through the efforts of the likes of FOSBR and the half-hour train campaign, but I'm afraid such incidents as this send that improvement backwards.

And I agree - FGW sanctioning "official" grafitti is almost like they are giving up the fight and handing their stations over to the spray can merchants! What a senseless policy ....

[bristolian]

Afternoon everyone,

This isn't a new trait, or the only location. Back in the mid-70s, I got mugged (with a punch thrown in for good measure) , for the little change that I had on me, in the old Up Relief 'waiting room' at Lawrence Hill.

Not a pleasant experience for anybody.

Very Best Wishes,
Bob.

[John Ball]

It is a major deterrent to using public transport especially at night, when stations are unstaffed, scruffy and clearly left to the yobs. Graffiti certainly reinforces that, and the car is seen as safer - provided that you lock all doors from the inside.

That's modern Britain for you.

[BristleGWR]

I've also contacted the Bristol Evening Post who may run the 'story'.

A bit late, but I've only just spotted this on their website.

PHOTOGRAPHER KICKED IN HEAD