I am proud to be British. We live in a country of free speech and democracy. If we do not work, we are supported by the benefits system, we have social housing, free healthcare and everyone has the opportunity to be educated. We are the envy of many nations and one of the largest economies in the world.

The events of the last few days have left me saddened and ashamed. The whole world has watched, as the worst of Britain went about mindless, wanton and wholly unjustifiable rioting, looting and criminal damage. They have destroyed lives, buildings, businesses and motor vehicles and for what? A free pair of sports shoes, a flatscreen TV or in one case, 6 bottles of nail polish.

I watched in disbelief as a young scrote in Manchester was interviewed by a journalist. He was asked why they were rioting and looting. His answer, "for money, the police can't do anything to stop us". That was it, his justification for being the scurge of Britain. Dressed in tracksuit, obligatory hoody (which should be banned) dark glasses and baseball cap. He was, your stereotypical yob, no more than 14 or 15 years old.

I am a single parent of two children. My eldest 16, my youngest 10. I know where they are all the time. At night, they are home, safe and out of trouble. If your children where involved in the reckless behaviour, you have failed as a parent, worse, you have failed as a member of society. You should be ashamed and embarrassed.

Watching the news, it is pleasing to see the speed with which the guilty are being punished. What puzzles me is, why would a primary school teacher, throw away his career and future prospects for stupidity. He was obviously employed, had a home and a partner. I would love to know how he justified his actions in court.

My main concern, is whether the punishment will fit the crime. Remembering that people have lost loved ones, homes, businesses and income. Punishment should be as harsh as possible. The message should be clear. In modern society, we will not accept this kind of behaviour.

The bleeding hearts will start to excuse the behaviour with the usual social excuses. Unemployment, bored teenagers, low income, high prices. I'm sorry, it wont wash. The country, as a whole, is in recession, everyone is feeling the pain. Who do these people think will bear the cost of the clean up, the increased insurance premiums, the extra policing. They have not saved jobs, they have jeopardised them.

I wonder how many of these yobs are claiming sickness or incapacity benefits. To ill to work but can throw a bin through a shop window, then run away. I hope the police and the courts liase with the benefits service.

Punishment should be in three parts.

1. Name and shame. If you loose your job, tough luck.

2. Dress them in orange overalls and make them clean up and repair the damage.

3. Sentence by victim. If that includes public flogging, so be it. Human rights should not be part of the equation.

My final word, will be praise for the police and fire service. True professionals in difficult circumstances. Also to the community members, who rose above the destruction and joined together to restore some pride. The best of British, yes indeed.