POLICE have increased patrols on a Colchester estate after a campaign of intimidation by a gang of yobs.

The teenagers have been accused of setting fire to cars, threatening and assaulting residents, smashing bus shelters and damaging property in the Berechurch Hall Road area.

Dozens of families say their lives are being ruined.

Bruno Hickman, 49, who lives in Selby Close, said he was fed up and his four-year-old daughter was scared.

He added: “I have had my car trashed twice.

“I can’t believe people living on our doorstep have got the nerve to commit this sort of mindless vandalism.

“I made reports to the police and then they tried to intimidate me.”

Mr Hickman said this year he had already had his car covered in eggs and curry sauce, had the boot broken into and side damaged. He has also had to put up with assault and intimidation.

He said: “I now have to park my car elsewhere. I looked into renting a garage, but that will cost about £1,000 a year.

“I have been told they are responsible for other incidents. I came from London to get away from this. They have to be stopped, but they think they are invincible.”

Dave Harris, ward councillor, who has met several families about the problems, says police have stepped up patrols. He has urged families to call the police and him if they have concerns because some have become targets after challenging the youths.

He said: “I feel devastated by this and I will not rest until it stops.”

On February 13, a car was burned out, near Berechurch Hall Road, and a fence and shed caught fire.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Police continue to fully investigate all reports of anti-social behaviour.

“Officers can only follow up reports if investigations find any corroborating witnesses or other evidence to show that an incident has taken place.”