Yobbish behaviour has reached such epidemic proportions in Witham that the town mayor has called for a summit to address the problem.
Mayor Jackie Martin has called for a meeting between all the organisations involved in dealing with anti-social behaviour.
She hopes that by getting together they can identify new ways of tackling the rising tide of low-level lawlessness.
In one of the most serious recent incidents, last month, a gang of youths hurled stones at a passing train, breaking a carriage window.
And residents on some of the town's housing estates have said they are afraid to speak out because of intimidation by young thugs.
The mayor called for more joint action between councils and police, and a greater use of acceptable behaviour contracts (ABCs) and anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs).
Mrs Martin said it was with "reluctance and sadness" that she raised the issue as she believed there was not enough awareness of the good work many young people do in the community.
Published Wednesday, February 9, 2005
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