Residents hit out over firebug vandals

FURIOUS residents have warned that they will take the law into their own hands unless something is done about yobs and vandals in Kimberworth Park.

There have been eight arson attacks in the Barker's Park area since early December and locals say they have had enough.

One resident of Redscope Crescent, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “We’ve had our gates kicked in, our bins and other property stolen and set fire to and we just don’t feel safe.

“The gangs go into the park, drinking and starting fires, little kids want to use the play area but they can’t because it’s been vandalised.

“We don’t blame the police or the council, it’s up to the kids to behave and the parents to know where their kids are.

“Some of them are on the wrong track and need help, we don’t know what kind of home life they have got.

“But the problem is that people are getting fed up. Someone is going to take the law into their own hands.

“These kids need to know they are messing with the wrong people. Someone is going to get hurt.”

South Yorkshire Police confirmed that ten reports of nuisance or rowdy behaviour had been made over the past six months relating to the Barkers Park area, seven of which have been made within the past two weeks about the children’s play area.

Insp Dave Baines said: “Rotherham North Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) has been in contact with local residents and 2010 Rotherham to explore ways of securing the rear of the properties backing onto Barkers Park and to identify offenders.

“The SNT has increased patrols during the day and at night to tackle this issue and provide extra reassurance to local residents. 

“Behaviour of this type will not be tolerated and action will be taken against any offenders identified.”

A spokesman for South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue said that school visits involving firefighters and community safety teams were about to start warning youngsters about the risks of starting fires.

The spokesman said: “Even small fires such as wheelie bin fires can cause damage to property and put lives in danger.

“We treat all incidents of arson very seriously and this week have staff working in and around the Barker's Park area, giving arson prevention advice to local residents and identifying any potential arson risks."

“The safety of residents is always our number one priority and we will work closely with the police to try to identify those responsible for arson attacks.

Residents can report incidents to Pc Andy Poppleton and PCSO James Thorpe by calling 01709 832073 or Rotherham arson intervention officers on 0114 253 2658.