Concerns over return of anti-social youths to Holyhead town centre

Dec 23 2008 by Rachel Owen, Holyhead and Anglesey Mail

Holyhead

ANTI-SOCIAL youths have returned to the centre of Holyhead town, causing problems for police and intimidating locals.

Outside the HSBC bank and Boozebusters has become a hotspot for young people to gather after dark.

Police have been keeping a close eye on the youths, after receiving numerous reports of problems.

Inspector Nigel Harrison said a firm approach will be taken to ensure that the congregating juveniles do not cause trouble.

One nearby resident said: “Town is always busy, especially at this time of year.

“But with such bad weather, I am always gobsmacked to see some very young people hanging about the lane, bank and Boozebusters shop.

“Do their parents know that they are standing in the wind and rain, in large, intimidating gangs?

“To be fair, I have seen the police speaking to them and patrolling the area, but it can be really scary to walk past them, when there are 10 or more loud youths, and you need to walk past them in the dark by yourself.”

Insp Harrison said local police are aware of the problems and are stamping it out.

He said: “We have seen the return of young people near to Boozebusters.

“Whereas I do not have any problem with people congregating, I do when they are acting in a anti-social manner.

“We have received reports of some anti-social behaviour and thus we are targeting the area with high-visibility patrols to deter this unacceptable behaviour.

“Should this not work I will look again at a dispersal order.”

rachel.owen