A NORTH Yorkshire village has vowed to do all it can to help police track down young trouble-makers who have been making locals' lives a misery.

About 70 people, who packed the village hall in Scotton, claimed the culprits were out of control and some were as young as ten.

One after the other, they catalogued incidents of mindless vandalism and abuse. One resident told the meeting she no longer wished to live in the village she once chose for its tranquillity.

Earlier, the problem had been demonstrated by a wall of snow, piled up at the entrance to the hall - probably in an attempt to disrupt the meeting, which had been announced several days in advance.

"I have lived here all my life and I was aware there was a problem, but I had no idea how bad it had become until I saw just how packed the village hall was," said ward member on Richmondshire District Council, Pat Middlemiss.

"Feelings are running deep enough for some people to suggest a curfew," she added.

That idea was ruled out as too difficult to enforce, but the village has instead pledged to increase its Neighbourhood Watch network to ensure as many incidents as possible are reported to the police.

"What is sickening is that those responsible target the vulnerable, like the elderly. It is a small community and they sometimes know who is away so empty houses also become targets," said Coun Middlemiss.

Inspector Charles Kay said yesterday: "Our priority recently has been a drive to cut burglary, car crime and criminal damage.

"However, the new service plan, which begins in April, will include a commitment to focus on the issue of juvenile behaviour.

"Despite the apparent concern, our research shows there have been few formal complaints so I would encourage people to report incidents to us and, if they know who was responsible, to tell us who they are.''

Insp Kay said there would also be a police representative at the Scotton parish annual assembly on Monday, March 26, who will be willing to listen to residents' concerns, should the problems persist.