NOT too long ago disabled people were treated with some respect by everyone. But now to certain yobbo sections of society they are seen as ideal targets for robbery and harassment.

But plucky Paula Waites, who suffers from multiple sclerosis and epilepsy, is made of sterner stuff.

Despite a campaign of harassment by hooded thugs the Great Lever mother of four has vowed not to give in to them and says she will not be forced from her home.

She believes those harassing her for the last 12 months are trying to steal her mobility scooter.

As we have said before even if these thugs are caught they almost certainly will escape being sent to custody.

Until the law cracks down hard on those who love preying on vulnerable people then this kind of deep rooted anti-social behaviour will continue to blight people's lives.

If the culprirts come from a Bolton at Home property then they should be evicted as a dramatic demonstration that this kind of anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.

But until thugs realise that there will be consequences as a direct result of their criminal behaviour then nothing will change.