RESIDENTS who feel they are living a nightmare because of continuous anti-social behaviour in their street are urging the police to try to combat the problem.

Firefighters were called to Mayfair Street, Hartlepool, early on Thursday morning following reports an unoccupied house had been set alight. They believe the fire had been started maliciously.

This was the latest incident concerning anti-social behaviour, violence and fires which have taken place during the past couple of months.

Firefighters are finding themselves regularly attending fires and abandoned cars in the area.

The situation has got so bad residents are being forced to leave the area after claiming it is too dangerous to live there.

Earlier this month, one resident went into hospital to have a baby and returned home to find her house had been set alight, destroying all the baby equipment stored there. She has since moved out of the area.

Another resident, who did not wish to be named, said the whole situation was becoming a bit of a nightmare.

He said: "I think these youths think they are heroes in front of their friends, but it is not clever.

"It is starting to become a bit of a nightmare. Not only are there fires, but also burglaries and fights.

"We also have to put up with loud music blaring throughout the day.

"All we want is to be able to have some peace, it is not too much to ask. I would like the police to come up with a plan that can solve the problems and let us have a break."

Police have stepped up patrols in the area, but residents say the problems are continuing.

One resident claimed he had been threatened by youths brandishing weapons and had often watched youngsters break into houses.

A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said: "We are aware that there are problems in Mayfair Street and we do appreciate the concerns that residents do have.

"Extra attention and patrols will be placed around this area to hopefully try to combat the problems.