ANGRY residents in Daisy Hill claim they are being tormented by gangs of youths who congregate on their estate.

They complain that between 20 and 30 teenagers converge outside shops in St George's Avenue each evening.

The problem has escalated over the years according, residents claim, and they say they now feel threatened by the youths' behaviour.

One resident, Jim Gregory, said: "There are nine shops in a row. Four are closed including two that are derelict.

"Every night there are gangs of kids hanging around. The residents have to put up with abuse and vandalism. There's broken glass all around and we've even found syringes."

The police are called out regularly and the residents have even contacted their local councillor Peter Finch and organised a petition.

Mr Gregory added: "We really don't know what can be done and we don't know where we can go for help.

"We think that if the shops were in use this might help. The derelict shops are like a focal point for these youths.

"It is a shame because the rest of the estate is trouble free."

Newsagent Ian Stobbs believes that the only solution is to get tough with the youths.

Mr Stobbs said: "These kids do not respect authority and I blame their parents.

"I don't think that the majority of them are even local.

"Something needs to be done. We shouldn't have to tolerate it anymore."

Community police officer, PC Anne Brookfield, who took over the patch last November says that the police are continually monitoring the situation.

She says that the majority of the youths who congregate at the shops are decent. She blames a small element for the trouble.

She said: "When I've spoken to them, they complain there is nowhere else for them to go in Daisy Hill.

"I feel sorry for them. However is a minority causing a problem and the police are biding their time to catch them at it. Every call from residents is answered and we would welcome any information or assistance from them."

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