THE Greater Manchester Police sick leave rate is the second highest in the country.

And the number of officers away from the beat -- which of course includes Bolton -- due to illness is increasing each year.

A report tells us that during the last 12 months the total number of working days lost to sick leave across the force rose to 101,464 compared to 95,359 in 1999/00.

So it is no wonder that, when we need a policeman, we cannot find one.

In line with national trends the biggest causes of sick leave are accidents and injuries -- although psychological illness is on the increase and has even overtaken backache.

So here we go again. Just like education -- not enough teachers -- and health -- not enough nurses and doctors -- there are not enough police officers around, partly because there are not enough in service and partly because those who should be around are ill.

Complain and the excuses will always be the same. First of all we will be told that: "More money has been made available in real terms." Then we will be told that the Government has a plan to address the shortage.

But is it not the case that shortages in these must-have positions in society actually arise because someone, somewhere, has worked out what they are worth.

"They" are putting a price on having a burglary investigated just as they are putting a price on health care or teaching your child to read and write. When are "they" going to learn that some things are beyond price and have to be paid for? Driving thrills WOULD you like to drive a car while blindfolded?

It might be a bit of a giggle, particularly on a nice large car park like the one at the Reebok Stadium.

It might also, as a BEN reporter found, be extremely frightening.

But imagine if you were blind and unable to drive, unable even to contemplate ever driving a car again.

And then the Guide Dogs for the Blind organisation offer you the chance to have a go in a car and a pillion ride on a motorcycle.

What a thrill, what an opportunity.

A number of blind people are having a superb thrill, the Guide Dogs people are raising a lot of much needed cash and, we suppose, the sighted instructors and helpers will have a great time as well. Now that is a scenario where everyone wins -- that we can all be pleased about.