TERRIFIED residents are still plagued by anti-social behaviour despite a recent police crackdown, says one pensioner.

The area around the derelict Wheatsheaf pub in Dores Road, Stratton, has for the past year been a favourite hangout spot for yobs and drug addicts.

Locals have complained of numerous instances of anti-social behaviour, including the discarding of used needles and the threatening and abusive language hurled at residents by youths.

In response, police last month issued a warning to would-be trouble makers in a bid to clampdown on anti-social behaviour.

But a 68-year-old woman, who wished to remain nameless through fears for her safety, has complained that she is still being kept awake at night by the sound of louts clambering through the gutted building.

The woman, who lives just a few doors down from the Wheatsheaf, said: “It’s terrifying, you don’t know what they are going to do next.

“You walk out your front door and you’re immediately subjected to horrendous abuse – some of the language I’ve never even heard before.

“I thought the police were supposed to be doing something about this. I haven’t seen anyone in uniform patrolling the area or speaking to the kids, it’s like they don’t care.”

So bad are the problems that one elderly woman previously said she is afraid to go to bed at night in case her house is ransacked while she is asleep.

Responding to residents’ initial concerns, PCSO Garath Reynolds, an officer who is well acquainted with the local area, said: “The presence of needles shows that this can be quite a dangerous area to hang around and we would urge residents to call us if they see instances of drug taking.

“Due to the fact that the building has been derelict for a while, it’s the perfect place for drug taking and we want to warn people of the consequences of doing that.”

A police spokesman said: “We have been increasing patrols around this area and are working with the council as well as the landowner to make sure the site is secured.

“We are also sending officers in to local schools to help educate children about the dangers of a site like this.

“We know there are increased issues over abandoned buildings and we do what we can to make our communities safe.”

People are reminded that, should they spot any instances of anti-social behaviour, they should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.