The easy response to Shirley Brown's call for some kind of ban on hoodies and bandanas is that it is failing to tackle the real problem.

And by the 'real problem', we mean knives.

Cllr Brown is trying to tackle this issue with the benefit of real experience – it was her nephew who was stabbed in an incident in Easton this week. She says that youngsters who cover their faces are creating an atmosphere of fear and there is no doubt that this fashion is intimidating.

It is not really any different to the wearing of balaclavas by bank robbers and, rightly or wrongly, there is a perception that someone who feels the need to cover their face is probably up to no good.

Whether such a measure would stop knife crime is debatable.

As we say, the fundamental problem is that many young people feel they need to carry a knife.

This can only lead to regular violent incidents and occasional tragedies. Just ask the family of Shevon Wilson, who died outside a pub in St George at the weekend.

It is obvious that the knife culture is the main issue. A hoodie or a bandana never killed anyone.

However, Cllr Brown is spot-on when she says people feel intimidated.

And there is no doubt that the perpetrators of many violent crimes feel the need to cover their face.

Cllr Brown is speaking from personal experience – and she has previously done good work to combat the knife issue.

It would not be easy to police a bylaw on hoodies. But if it can be done, it would surely make our streets just that bit more welcoming.