Axminster residents living in 'misery'

AXMINSTER residents are in uproar over the behaviour of some youths in the town, which they say keeps them up at night.

People living near Willhayes Park say they are too frightened to approach the youngsters who hang out there �- claiming they swear, vandalise the area and leave a mass of litter.

Police are to step up patrols in the area.

A retired resident, who does not wish to be named, said the problem had recently been reported to the police.

He said: " A lot of residents are up in arms now. It's bedlam. It's quite frightening and a lot of older people don't want to go over there and get involved.

"They leave empty beer cans, broken glass, and have been heard swearing and being noisy - up until midnight.

"One lady said she had to wear ear plugs to sleep. The noise is keeping people up at night.

"One person against 15 or 20 youngsters can give you a lot of problems. They can make your life misery if you really push them. I know children need somewhere to go and let off steam, but this is just people not considering other people."

He called for more police presence in the area and for parents to encourage their children, some who are as old as 20, to act more considerately.

A police spokesman said: "We have been made aware of the problem.

"We will increase patrols and deal with any issues as and when they become apparent.