Police are investigating a series of anti-social incidents in Canvey High Street, where library staff were reportedly spat at by youths refusing to leave the premises.

The escalating behaviour has sparked concerns within the community, prompting Essex Police to increase their presence in the area.

Officers say they have received reports of youths climbing on the roof of the library and with youths harassing staff.

This includes “spitting at them” when asked to leave the premises due to their behaviour and “causing criminal damage to a window”.

Essex Police reiterates that they have CCTV footage of those involved.

A spokesman said: “Following reports of anti-social behaviour in the High Street, on Canvey, our officers have been conducting high visibility patrols in the area to reduce this behaviour and to protect the community.

“We have received reports of youths climbing on the roof of the library and with youths harassing staff.

“This includes spitting at them when asked to leave the premises due to their behaviour and causing criminal damage to a window.

“We now have CCTV of those involved and will be working with local schools to identify those involved and deal with their behaviour accordingly.”