Problem zone is targeted – again
LANCASHIRE Police will again increase patrols in Tarleton in a bid to tackle anti-social behaviour. The force previously announced it would target the area around Mark Square in September following reports from nearby residents and councillors.
Police presence will again be increased in the area with reports of nuisance behaviour continuing to be a concern.
According to the force, the problem largely involved big groups of teenagers causing an array of issues.
Some of the alleged anti-social behaviour and criminal activity has included criminal damage, shoplifting, assaults and drug use.
One business owner at Marks Square wel- comed the news and said he was pleased to see the police listening to residents concerns, though also argued that the groups caused ‘annoyance’ rather than a criminal threat.
Andrew Powell, owner of Tarleton Flooring, said he has noticed a decrease in problems in recent weeks. “We have the kids riding round outside the shop doing wheelies but I haven’t noticed it as much recently.
“It’s been going on for a few months now, I’d say since the start of the summer.
“It’s more kids being annoying and that they’ve got nowhere else to go instead. It’s when they start doing the wheelies on the road which is the more dangerous side of it - for them as much as anything.”
Andrew, who has run the shop for five years, is also involved in a local scouts group and encourages the children to get involved in such activities.
He added: “I think the other shop owners are the same, we don’t want to stop the kids enjoying themselves but just don’t want them being dangerous, especially when its around the elderly people, which you do get a lot of with the doctors being here.
A spokesperson for Lancashire police said that officers are working with the local community in an attempt to identify offenders and disperse these groups of youths.
The spokesman added: “If you have any information regarding these groups, contact the police on 101, or contact Crimestoppers on 0844 770 6997.”