A Solihull murder victim's partner has called for action by police on people wearing balaclavas and face coverings in public, saying that they've become an "accessory for committing a crime" - and Birmingham Live readers in our comments section have backed her call.

Kelvin Ward was fatally attacked by a gang covered by masks and armed with machetes. They used a stolen Ford Kuga to ram his son's Vauxhall Corsa at a KFC restaurant drive-thru. The attackers then chased him on foot shouting: "Get him now, keep chasing. Kill him, everyone kill him." Mr Ward, 50, was stabbed to death on Chester Road, Kingshurst, on April 18, last year.

Four people were jailed last week for their part in his horrific death. Mr Ward's partner Tammy has launched a change.org petition calling for those who wear balaclavas to be instantly stopped and searched by police. Part of the petition reads: "I understand that some of you may say that balaclavas are a fashion accessory and may think it’s an infringement of peoples human rights to be stopped & searched but it’s an infringement of the rights of citizens."

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"Citizens of all ages are frightened when walking in public areas past those who wear them and it’s affecting their everyday living, causing anxiety and distress. We should be able to see peoples faces and who’s around us."

Commenter Matt_S has backed Tammy's call for action, saying: “I agree, there is no reason for anyone to wear a balaclava unless the temperature is that cold, although all it will do is make the feral types that think it's ok to carry a knife not wear a balaclava. Start convicting and putting away for lengthy periods of those who carry a knife.”

User Wolfinbrum says: “I don’t always like the police, but they should be able to search anyone at anytime as there a knife crime epidemic.” Vetran agrees: “The police should be able to stop and search who ever they want.”

N8935f writes: “There just aren't enough police on the streets to combat it.”

On our Facebook page, reader Gyasi Rider says: “I absolutely agree with her and she has a valid concern. A balaclava should not be permitted as social wear in public. It is threatening and is increasingly used by those who have something to hide.”

John Parrish writes: “What’s the point in having CCTV cameras when all these wronguns wear face masks and caps so you can never ID them properly? All ride around on their bikes, intimidating people think they make them feel tough, BAN them.”

Jackie Hawkins says: “Completely agree, why are they all wearing them if they're not up to no good? They are so intimidating when you see lads coming towards you wearing them.” Christine Rainbird agrees: "Balaclava and masks should be banned altogether totally. They look scary and intimidating even when they are not!”

Have you felt intimidated by people wearing balaclavas in the street? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.