A LYNCHMERE parish councillor has expressed grave fears over continuing problems with gangs of youths causing havoc on Camelsdale recreation ground. Ann Thornhill told members of Lynchmere Parish Council on Tuesday that over the weekend around 25 youths, mostly from Haslemere, had been causing trouble on the recreation ground. She told the meeting: "I have grave concerns for Saturday evenings that we that we might get more (trouble) again. "It's disorderly behaviour, throwing rubbish, causing criminal damage and setting fire to parts of the football pitch." Ms Thornhill hit out at the youths who had also been abusive and created a lot of noise. She called for tough action to be taken and questioned why Sussex Police had failed to charge any of the youths involved. Ms Thornhill added:"I do not understand why it is getting worse and worse. I do not think we are doing anything different as a parish council. "I fear every evening we have warm weather. Things are escalating in the wrong way and I am worried people are going to become vigilant types Ms Thornhill said the problems were not just restricted to youngster as there are also a "persistent group of offenders who are over 18". However Ms Thornhill did say the recent increased police presence in the area had made the situation "a little bit better". Inspector Jim Bartlett, of West Sussex Police, said: "We are fully aware of the ongoing issues in Camelsdale. "Over the past few weeks patrols have been enhanced in this area and a number of youths have been spoken to. "Where juveniles are spoken to in the area, even if they are not comitting any offences, their details are taken and letters written to their parents to adivse them what their children are up to and to ask for their support in preventing anti-social behaviour. "We have also issued a formal warning to one youth under the Police Reform Act regarding the use of his motorcycle. "We are liaising closely with Chichester District Council and Surrey Police in an attempt to deal with this problem and all opportunities are being explored. "Any evidence of persons committing offences will be dealt with robustly"
