Parents have been urged to shop their own children after pensioners were targeted in a spate of vandalism attacks.

Residents at an old folks' complex are afraid to step outside their front doors after suffering months of misery.

The residents of Cromer Avenue, Laindon, have had windows smashed and mud thrown against their walls in a prolonged spate of criminal damage.

When they reported the latest attack, the pensioners told police they feared for their safety and didn't want to go outside.

Now Basildon Council and Laindon police are working together to find a solution.

PC Brett Mercer, community liaison officer for Laindon, has asked families to shop their children and has promised them their information will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Meanwhile, the council is urging elderly folk who spot trouble-makers to pull their alarm cords, which will put them instantly in touch with their wardens or the 24-hour Careline system.

PC Mercer said today: "Pensioners are being targeted, but the community as a whole is suffering.

"The people who live in these flats and bungalows are in their 80s. They have a warden on site but she can't be with them 24 hours a day. I do feel for these ladies - they are very frightened.

"I have paid quite a few visits with council representatives and spoken to those affected. I have also written to the council with suggestions of physical measures which could help deter the vandals - such as higher fences."

He added: "These attacks of vandalism are being committed by local people. The residents are too scared to go out and challenge the vandals but most of these youngsters have grandparents who are the same age so I would ask them to come forward, in confidence, and let me know who is responsible as we are determined to get to the bottom of it.

"The area has suffered with vandalism over a period of years because of its proximity to fields and schools but now it is getting worse."

A spokesman for Basildon Council added: "We have met with police to see what can be done to remedy this problem.

"People have been using the area as a short cut and unfortunately their fun and high jinxes are resulting in misery for people living in Cromer Avenue. We would appeal to those concerned to realise the anguish they are causing."

If you can help, call PC Mercer on 01268 244027

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