Residents in fear of boozy gangs

Now, after receiving a large number of complaints, particularly concerning the recreation ground, Newhaven police are to step up patrols in the area.

One East Side resident, who did not want to be named for fear of reprisals, said the situation was so bad, younger children were afraid to play in their own back gardens.

She said: 'Since the new play equipment arrived at the recreation ground last September, the group hanging round there has increased in number from about 10 to up to 40.

They are all drinking and most are in year 10 at school so we don't know where they are getting the alcohol from. They stay up their until midnight or 1am causing havoc '“ lots of noise and abuse the neighbours.

The kids that live round here can't use the park because they leave their rubbish, including glass, in there.

The children whose gardens back on to the recreation ground can't play in their gardens because they get abuse from them.'

Police said they would target the groups and confiscate any alcohol found as well as record youths' details.

They are also hoping to obtain a no alcohol order for the area. Police pledged to take any necessary further action such as issuing 80 fines, Acceptable Behaviour Agreements (a precursor to an Anti Social Behaviour Order) and arrests.

Sgt Graeme Ross, of Newhaven Police, said: 'The residents of East Side have contacted myself and my team and so we have developed a plan to deal with their complaints. I ask that the youths consider their behaviour and understand we will deal with them.'