Yobs Make Lives A Misery

Not only are they causing havoc on the evening service buses in Test Road and Loose Lane, as reported by the Lancing Herald last week, but they hang around the Alldays shop in Test Road, shouting abuse and vandalising the cash point machine.

A resident who called the police after she saw them climbing over Sompting Community Centre in Loose Lane claims they threw a lump of wood at her head.

A woman, who didn't want to be named, said: "Why should we, night after night, have to worry about going out or leaving our properties for too long in case we come back to find them broken into? People in the area are getting fed up with the amount of damage and trouble these youths are causing."

Another woman said she had heard that the cash point machine by Alldays in Test Road had been vandalised so many times, they were considering removing it altogether.

Lancing Sergeant Kevin Jenkins said police patrols in the area had been increased because of the problems on the Stagecoach buses at night.

Bus inspectors had now been put on the number seven service with video cameras, and this had helped reduce some of the trouble.

But on Sunday night a man was assaulted by a 15-year-old youth who was among a group of eight teenagers in the area. He suffered a cut to his eye.

"I again make it clear to these youths that their behaviour is anti-social.

"We will prosecute them where evidence exists and obtain parenting orders against their parents or guardians.

"Some parents have already taken notice but it is time for those who haven't to do so.

"Otherwise, you and your child will be taken before the court to explain your behaviour.

"We are determined to resolve the problems in this area."

Any information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.