While the problem of homelessness in Cornwall, including in Helston, is often brought to the fore at Christmas, it seems that rough sleepers were treated with rather less compassion in the past – not least by the police.

This week Ian Drummond-Smith, police chief inspector for West Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, sent a picture out on Twitter showing a framed document still on display at Helston Police Station, calling for officers’ “utmost exertion” to “rid” the county of vagrancy in 1870.

It was issued by the chief constable’s office in Bodmin and reads: “General order – vagrants. The Chief Constable calls the attention of the officers of the force to the increase in vagrants in this county and trusts they will use their utmost exertions to get rid of them.

The note, including a wax seal, is signed by John G Vincent, superintendent chief clerk.

And the date of issue for this caring decree? December 25 – Christmas Day.

Chief Insp Drummond-Smith spotted the document as he was given a tour of Helston Police Station, where he met the local inspector and staff.

He later wrote about his visit on Twitter, saying: “Fantastic staff and building!”