POLICE are upping patrols in the Southchurch area after increased complaints of antisocial behaviour.

At the latest neighbourhood meeting. residents complained of thieves, cannabis smokers, yobs riding mini-motos and litter louts out of control.

Residents at Bewley Court, Whittingham Avenue, told how youths broke a security door so they could congregate in the stairwells and smoke cannabis.

Longbow flats, Sherwood Way, has a similar problem.

Meanwhile, in Bournes Green Park teenagers have been causing havoc on bin collection days by emptying rubbish in elderly people’s gardens.

In Chaingate Avenue, crooks stole about 100 tiles from roofs and mini-moto riders have been plaguing the Newington Avenue area, tearing around on pavements.

Jo Bates, 44, of Newington Avenue, said: “We get them racing up and down here quite a lot and often hear the bikes revving up.

“These youngsters also hang around in the park because they are bored. There are no social clubs around here, that’s the problem.”

PCSO Wendy Ellis, of Southchurch neighbourhood policing team, said police were determined to do more.

She said: ”We now have an office at the bottom of Bewley Court, where we are available every day.

“People with concerns are more than welcome to speak with us. We know there’s quite a bit of crime around there.

“Hopefully, the base will serve as a deterrent.”

PCSO Martin Mansfield said they were receiving about two calls a day about antisocial behaviour in the area.

He said: "It's the same kids that are causing the problems. Youth Offending then get get involved. Hopefully, they can do their bit to tryto get the kids back on track."

Anyone with information about antisocial behaviour should call Southchurch Neighbourhood policing team on 07974 148602.