‘Don’t become a holiday yob’

POLICE are reminding children and young people across Halton breaking up for the six week holidays to stay safe this summer and to not undertake anti-social behaviour.

Officers in Runcorn and Widnes will be patrolling areas where complaints are made.

A Cheshire police spokeswoman said action may be taken against anyone who is found to be breaking the law ‘regardless’ of their age.

Superintendent Peter Crowcroft said: “Although young people are rightly excited about the idea of a six week holiday, they can sometimes end up getting bored, and perhaps fall into mischief – doing something they may later regret.

“While we want young people to have a good time, we don’t want them to fall into trouble, and anti-social behaviour which harms other people and causes concern among the local community is not acceptable.

“The majority of young people are well behaved and many get involved in local community events throughout their summer holidays.”

Supt Crowcroft is encouraging young people in Runcorn and Widnes to view the Halton Borough Council website for details of things to do in their area.

Cheshire Police And Crime Commissioner David Keane said: “I know having spoken to residents across Cheshire and having worked positively with our Youth Commission, that anti-social behaviour can have a major impact on our local communities.

“Whilst the majority of people stay out of trouble, there are a small number who sometimes get involved in activities they may later regret; this can be a particular issue for young people at this time of the year, due to boredom or peer pressure.

“Interacting with young people is a vital part of the work that Local Policing Units undertake, especially during the summer holidays.

“I would like to thank officers and staff for the work being done to ensure the public of Cheshire is safe and promote that all young people across Cheshire get involved in the positive community events taking place across the county.”

Anyone who is concerned about anti-social behaviour is urged to contact Cheshire police on 101.