Arsonists target South Bersted

But dozens of families living in Orchard Way are determined to take action against a group of youths alleged to have caused potentially-devastating incidents by setting fire to sheds and fences.

The group of dismayed home-owners have signed a petition calling for the closure of an alleyway at the rear of their road which they say has become a haven for teens smoking drugs and vandalising their allotments.

In the latest incident the fence, hedge and garden shed of an elderly woman in Orchard Way were destroyed. Witnesses observed several youths running from the scene of the fire.

One resident, Kim Hickmore, explained she and her neighbours had 'just had enough' of the arsons, which happen every year, and several times over the past three weeks, causing widespread concern.

"We just don't feel safe in our own homes," she said. "There have been several other incidents over the past few weeks.

"My husband rang round the councils trying to get something done about this, but nothing seems to be happening.

"When our neighbour's shed went up you could see the flames for some distance '“ they were about 40ft high.

"My husband Kelvin has a workshop at the bottom of the garden and has poured blood sweat and tears for months in to restoring a car (a Mini) with sentimental value belonging to my dad who passed away recently, and that was singed in the fire.

"We also have two young children aged two and five and I am worried about them.

"There's nothing to stop people coming into our gardens now because of this arson, which happens after school closing time at nearby South Bersted School."

Allotment holder Paul Tamblyn condemned the arsonists.

He said: "I'm quite angry about this as it is a serious situation '“ the latest case involved an old lady, it could have been quite dangerous for her if she had been near the shed.

"The garage next to it had some welding gas in it a few days before which could have been terrible if it had happened then. The people living next to the footpath cannot put up a greenhouse as they keep getting damaged by youths."

Residents are being invited to sign the petition to close the alley. To add your name contact the Hickmores at 47 Orchard Way.

What do you think? Send a letter to [email protected] or leave a comment below.

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