Concerned residents packed a meeting after a spate of crime in Little Lever.
The meeting was called after a number of violent incidents including the attack on a delivery driver and a mum robbed of her car at knifepoint.
The meeting was held at Hardy Hall and residents wanted to know what was being done to address crime particularly 'youths terrorising ' the community.
The meeting was attended by police officers and local ward councillors.
The public spoke about bricks being thrown at cars and people being intimidated on the streets.
Police said action was being taken but sometimes the results take a while to show.
Inspector Lisa Clark said: “We make a number of arrests, but they are not quick because we have a lot of witnesses to speak to.
“My own son was a victim of a crime in Bolton, and it took two years but I would rather it be investigated properly.
“Into the new year we will have new resources including new officers in the area, so there will be an influx of new staff.”
Cllr Sean Hornby, who has lived in the area for over 30 yearsm said: “Anti-social behaviour in this village is out of control when you get children as young as 10 throwing bricks at cars.
“I think severe punishment is needed and the main thing is that the travellers site needs closing.
"But we have had meetings about this already and we are told it’s not possible because it’s a legal obligation to have one, yet Manchester are closing theirs.”
Little Lever is set to get more police in the area in the new year.
Chief Inspector Justine Topping said: “The new officers will be in next year, it’s not something that can happen overnight as officers need training.
“In the meantime, anyone who has been burgled will now definitely get a visit from police within 24-48 hours.
“I understand we have got it wrong in the past, we have got it very wrong, but we are making changes.”
Cllr David Meehan said: “We want to reassure the public we are listening to them and understand their frustration.
“We have Bolton At Home doing work with families as well as GMP recruiting new staff, we are listening and understand there is a problem.
“With everyone together we will combat this anti-social behaviour that we experience.”
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