Communication hitch over gangs - police

Police tackling a gang of youths causing misery on a Norfolk estate have admitted communication with residents could have been better and said measures were being put in place to sort the problems.

Police tackling a gang of youths causing misery on a Norfolk estate have admitted communication with residents could have been better and said measures were being put in place to sort the problems.

The comments come following a meeting on Thursday, which saw residents on parts of Hillcrest Estate, Toftwood, say their lives were being made a misery.

They say older residents are in fear of leaving their homes at night because of bad behaviour, damage, threats and intimidation.

Some threatened to take their own action against problems like stones being thrown at windows, abuse and swearing.

On Friday, Insp Peter Walsh said measures were being put in place, adding: 'We are aware one small band is responsible for recent disorder on the Hillcrest Avenue estate and an arrest has been made and there will be more. We are appealing to parents to make sure they know where their children are and who they are with and ensure they are not causing a nuisance.'

He admitted communication by police with locals had been lacking.

A Breckland Council spokesman said it would be collating responses from the public meeting and formul-ating an action plan, including enhancing a neighbourhood watch scheme, holding a 'street briefing' for young people and putting the issue on the agenda of the March 10 meeting of the Dereham Community Action Group.