Not all teenagers are instant troublemakers (From Gazette Series)

Not all teenagers are instant troublemakers

AS a parent of the Berkeley teenagers accused of being trouble makers in last week's Gazette (April 29) I would like to set the record straight.

PC Sharp visited us and explained the problems the town of Berkeley is facing with its youngsters. He asked to make an agreement with the boys and ourselves to have them in by 9pm to try and solve some of the issues.

There is no evidence that any of the lads have been involved in any vandalism or criminal damage. In fact two out of the three occasions mentioned the boys were able to prove they were not present and we are confident they were not involved with the third.

It would appear they are guilty of being part of a large group of friends that are, at times, noisy and boisterous. However a 9pm curfew seemed a practical way of being sure they would not be part of any late night disturbances, so it was agreed.

I do not think our co-operation warrants them being labelled as troublemakers and yobs. As the Gazette states, more problems occurred when the pubs kick out.

Perhaps the people of Berkeley could remember when they were young and allow our children a little bit of fun instead of condemning everything they do as unacceptable.

Try treating them in a way you would like to be treated yourself, you may be very surprised by how polite and helpful our young people are.

Name and address supplied but withheld for legal reasons.