Danger yobs warning

Arsonists torched the Ford Mondeo in a lane behind a row of shops on Southey Avenue, Longley.

The blazing vehicle rolled down a hill, smashing into railings bordering a house where an 81-year-old woman lives.

Shocked neighbours said it was fortunate the car hadn't smashed into the property or a nearby garage.

One woman said: "If it had hit the house and blown up who knows what would have happened.

"The other people in that block of houses must be worried, there's a baby that lives in one of them."

She said the arson attack was an example of the problems residents are being plagued with night after night.

She said: "There can be 50 or 60 kids hanging around here at night causing havoc.

"They smash windows, they drink, they are rowdy and they are so bad that one woman was driven out by them after just a few weeks.

"The police do send people here but it's always at the wrong time, such as during the day when all those involved in the behaviour are probably at school or still in bed."

Another woman suggested that residents and police should meet to discuss the problems.

Inspector Andy McFarlane urged residents to come forward with information about those causing trouble.

He said there are a number of operations under way in the area to deal with problems including criminal damage, attacks on buses and bus shelters, underage drinking and anti-social behaviour.

He added officers patrol the area at all times of the day and night but said resources could only stretch so far.

He said: "We want to be involved in the community and to support people, so if they engage us we will do our best.

"We can't be there 24/7 but with the support of the community we will be able to act on that and prioritise."

Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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