Gangs of youths have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage in vandalism attacks at the Laindon shopping centre.

Shoppers are being scared away in the evenings, while traders are footing the bill to replace smashed windows and stolen goods.

One store was forced to close early after a 15-strong gang of youngsters began stealing from a neighbouring shop, traders claim.

Laindon police this week revealed they are looking at measures to tackle the problem. It came after councillors raised the question of introducing curfews.

Basildon and East Thurrock MP Angela Smith visited the centre today to hear traders' fears.

She called on owners Rootgate and Broadminster to invest in security measures.

She said: "There is a problem which I am going to talk to shopkeepers and police about. But I am losing my patience with the owners. Unless we work with them it will be difficult to take action.

"CCTV and better lighting are just some of the measures that would have an impact."

Traders claim gangs of youths aged 12-16 are running amok during the evenings. The catalogue of trouble includes:

The Sue Ryder charity shop having to replace its front door three times in a month after being targeted by vandals

Peachey's greengrocer having to close early to prevent shoplifting

Shops regularly looted and staff abused

Pets 'n' Food pet store having to spend £2,000 to replace a door following a smash 'n' grab raid at the weekend

Peachey's manager David Stuckey said: "We've had problems with gangs of children stealing stock.

"We saw them stealing from a neighbouring shop and I thought it was cheaper to close early. I've been to the police but the owners need to spend money on private security guards."

Another trader, who did not want to be named, said: "They are worse than vermin. It is like Beirut here at night. They intimidate the elderly, vandalise shops and generally put people off coming here at night."

Sgt Sue Mackey of Laindon police could not comment on the possibility of issuing curfews on youngsters.

She said: "It is wrong to blame one particular party because you can say there is not enough youth facilities around or the managers are not spending enough money. We need to work out a multi-agency approach."

Councillor Colin Payn, Labour member for Laindon, said parents had to take some responsibility for the problem.

He said: "Parents must be aware of their children coming home late at night smelling of alcohol and have a duty to become involved.

"The problem seems to have arisen over the last three weeks because the work that is being done on the neighbouring estate where the children used to play has come to fruition."

Vandalised - traders are calling for help in their war against problem teenagers

Picture: MAXINECLARKE

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