POLICE have vowed to tackle an increase in anti-social behaviour in Thornbury, following a series of attacks in public places in recent months.

Serious damage was done to sheds and plots on Daggs Allotments on March 11 with glass smashed and a tree taken down.

A fire was on Thornbury Skate Park on February 26, with a transit van also being set alight in Eastbury Close the same night.

Further problems caused by groups of young people have also been reported in and around the town centre and St Mary Centre.

Thornbury beat manager PC Natalie Jones said that investigations remained open and that they wanted anyone with information that could help to get in touch.

She said: “We need everyone to play their part and keep Thornbury a great place to live and work. If you witness or are affected by ASB it’s important to report it to us or to South Gloucestershire Council.

“It helps us target our patrols and resources where they’re needed.

“If you’re a parent or carer, help to keep your children safe by knowing where they are and what they are up to. Starting fires and causing damage is not only unacceptable, it could lead to injury or accident to themselves or others.

“If they’re involved in this type of criminal behaviour it could affect their future career prospects and even travel plans.”

Officers have taken a proactive approach in recent months to tackle the problem, having conducted house-to-house enquiries in each of these areas, as well as getting crime scene investigators to examine the allotments for evidence.

Parents and carers of young people involved in ASB have also been written to and visited, with one teenage girl being issued with an Acceptable Behaviour Contract, including an overnight curfew, following problems in the St Mary Centre.

More work has been carried out with youth leaders from Thornbury Town and South Gloucestershire councils and youth organisations in the area.

Visits are also planned for schools in the area, with police teaming up with Avon Fire and Rescue Service to talk about the ramifications of ASB and the damage it causes.

Thornbury-based PC Sean White added: “Young people are part of our community and it’s only a few teenagers who get involved in ASB.

“Please don’t assume that all groups of young people are out to cause trouble – most just want to meet up with their friends and like the rest of us should be able to do so. However we must all respect each other and the amenities of our town.”

Officers have asked for anyone with evidence that could help identify those behind these problems to contact them by calling 101 or by visiting www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/contact and giving the operator the relevant reference - Skate Park ref 5217046197, Daggs Allotments ref 5217054039 and van fire ref5217043620.

Information can also be given anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.