GANGS of anti-social yobs who are causing mayhem are facing tough opposition from a group of crusading councillors and police chiefs.

Councillors in Bradshaw and Bromley Cross have joined forces to tackle the growing problem of anti-social behaviour by youths in their wards.

They say they have had enough of teenagers intimidating residents in public places and say people are living in fear.

Police officers have been patrolling problem areas in east Bolton since the summer to deal with troublesome youths.

Councillors will now meet with the police to look at further measures to clamp down on yobbish behavior.

Bradshaw councillor Diana Brierley, said: "Since the boundary changes we have had a lot of problems with youths behaving anti-socially in both Bradshaw and Bromley Cross.

"Many of the incidents which occur cross over into the new ward of Bradshaw and Bromley Cross. We decided to work together to tackle the problem."

Bromley Cross councillor Donald Carr has experienced first hand anti-social behaviour by yobs.

Three weeks ago his car and his next door neighbour's car were vandalised. Cllr Carr said: "Pensioners are living in fear. Groups of youths congregating outside Bromley Cross shopping centre are intimidating people.

"It is a positive step forward to work together with the Bradshaw councillors. We face many similar problems from gangs in Bradshaw, Harwood and Bromley Cross."

Inspector Tony Kenyon, said: "The police were out in force in the Bradshaw and Tonge Moor areas last weekend and we hope to be able to do the same thing this coming weekend.

"We have to remember that the majority of young people are decent law biding citizens with much to offer the community. However there exists a small minority who are intent on misbehaving and causing distress."