Mums' Army: Stories of antisocial behaviour

Grimsby, Lincolnshire: Debbie and Steve Hall

2008-02-15T04:12:00.000-08:00

After enduring years of anti-social behaviour with barely any support from the local authorities, Debbie Hall and her husband Steve decided to take matters into their own hands.
Debbie, 43, of Laceby Road, Grimsby, Lincolnshire, explains: 'Kids used to hang about in gangs and terrorise the neighbourhood, just because there was nothing else to do.
'So we hired a church hall and every week put on a disco for the local youths. We went on to teach a dance class and held bingo nights - and our project is still growing.
'We've taken kids who had gone down the wrong path and set them straight again. It is heart-warming to see.'
Now four years on they have secured funding for a state-of-the-art youth centre with an indoor play area, arcade and Laser Quest arena.
But despite their best efforts, Debbie and Steve are now the subjects of a frightening hate campaign, with some of the perpetrators being the same teens who used to attend their club nights.
Debbie says: 'Our car windows have been smashed, out house vandalised and I've been physically and verbally attacked.
When I report it, my family is targeted again. But we won't give up.
'It's easy to blame the authorities but I believe that to respect others you have to respect yourself and that's what Steve and I try to teach the kids at the youth club.
People have the passion to make things better but they're either too scared or don't know how to use it. I'm joining Mums' Army because I will never stop fighting for a better community.'
Tel: 07789 781162

Grimsby, Lincolnshire: Nicky Piercy

2008-01-23T02:18:00.000-08:00

When Nicky Piercy's 13-year-old son Nathan was threatened with a syringe, she thought the police would take rapid action - especially as the attacker was a notorious criminal and drug user. But three months later the police haven't even taken a statement from Nathan and he has been left too frightened to step outside the house.
Nicky, 34, of Grimsby, Lincolnshire, says: 'Nathan suffers from diabetes and had just built up enough confidence to go outside and play with his friends.
'One day as he rode home, two women tried to take his bike. When he refused to hand it over, one of them pulled a syringe out of her bag and threatened to stab him with it.'
Nicky called the police, who informed her that the woman was wanted with nine other offences.
'They said it would be a priority case,' says Nicky. 'I was sure she would be arrested straightaway.'
But months passed and when Nicky asked what was happening, she was told that the Crown Prosecution Service would not be taking the case any further. They said that as the woman had been laughing at the time, it was not malicious and probably a joke.
Nicky continues: 'I'm absolutely furious. The police said they couldn't find her to arrest her, but this woman lives just around the corner from us.
'Nathan is terrified of seeing her again and won't go out without me. He's a prisoner in his own home, whereas she can wander around freely, terrorising the neighbourhood.
'I won't let this matter rest and have written to my local MP for support. Our children need better protection on the streets.'
Tel: 07875 951235

Jarrow, Tyne & Wear: Alison Bolam

2008-01-17T09:45:00.000-08:00

Slamming the bathroom door shut, Alison Bolam turned the key and frantically dialed 999 from her mobile phone. Four men had broken into her home and were smashing it to pieces.
Alison, 26, of Jarrow, Tyne & Wear, contacted Mums’ Army and said: ‘It was the middle of the night and I had to drag my two young children out of bed and into the bathroom because it was the only room with a lock.
The men were shouting and breaking everything we owned with metal bars. They even destroyed my four-year-old son’s Spider-Man bike.
When the police arrived 25 minutes later, they arrested one of the men. But because I couldn’t identify him, he was released.
‘I’m too afraid to go back home but the council won’t re-house us. We’ve been staying with friends and family ever since.
‘Now my son has started having nightmares. Wherever we are he has to be constantly reassured that no one can get in at night.
‘I’m supporting Mums Army because innocent people are being put at risk and something needs to be done about it.’
Tel: 07934 305230

Sunderland, Tyne & Wear: Adele Brett

2008-01-10T09:30:00.000-08:00

When Adele Brett's partner Kevin Johnson knelt down and proposed on Christmas Eve, she immediately accepted. But now the couple will never see their wedding day - because in May last year Kevin was beaten and stabbed to death when he confronted drunken yobs outside their home.
Adele, 27, of partick Road, Sunderland, wrote to Mums' Army. In her letter she said: 'I was pleased to see your feature on Anarchy in the UK. As a victim of anti-social behaviour, it was good to see such support.
'Kevin was 22 when he was murdered. We'd just come home from a night out with friends and heard people arguing in the street outside our house. He went to ask them to keep the noise down.
'The next thing I knew, they were hitting him. I called the police but when I went outside the boys had gone and Kevin had collapsed on the grass.
'They'd stabbed him four times with a craft knife. The fatal wound was in his heart.'
Dean Curtis, 19, and two youths were found guilty of Kevin's murder and given life sentences.
Mum of two Adele added: 'Because of his age, the boy will serve a maximum of 12 years. If he does, he'll only be a year older than I am now when he's released.
'I've joined Mums' Army because if we stand together, the Government will have to listen. Things must change.'
Tel: 07708 067932

Colchester, Essex: Rachel Hawley-Thomas

2008-01-04T06:56:00.000-08:00

As Rachel Hawley-Thomas sat up in bed and let her eyes adjust to the dark, she listened again for the tapping noise that had just woken her. When she heard the sound, she turned to her husband and said: 'AJ, I think there's someone outside our window.'
Next day, Rachel, 38, of Colchester, Essex, called the Mums' Army hotline and explained: 'We had scaffolding put outside our house and a gang of kids had climbed up on it. They were knocking on out bedroom window and shouting.
'When AJ threatened to call the police, they left. But I lay awake the following two nights until the scaffolding was eventually taken down.'
Mum of three Rachel added: 'We've had to put up with yobs shouting abuse and throwing eggs at our house for the past six years. Once they even threw a bicycle saddle through our dining room window and hurled in dog mess wrapped in burning newspaper at our front door.
'My youngest daughter has learning difficulties and my two eldest used to take her to play in the park. But now they're too scared to go near it because it's become a hang-out for gangs.
'I'm joining Mums' Army because I'm at my wits end. The council do nothing and all the police can do is hand out ASBOs, which are seen as badges of honour here. It's time something was done to protect decent people.'
Email: rae_hawley_thomas@yahoo.com

Huddersfield, West Yorkshire: Michelle Jeffrey

2007-12-20T09:30:00.000-08:00

Woosh! Michelle Jeffrey heard the noise and looked up to see sparks as a firework flew through her letter box.
Michelle, 39, of Mount Street, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, explains: 'My 14-year-old son Damien got into a fight with some kids at school because they'd scrawled disgusting comments over one of his books.
'The gang gathered outside my house, hurling insults. After the incident with the firework they smashed my window.
'Then they doused all the clothes on my washing line with petrol and set fire to them. They also tried to set fire to my front door curtain. I told the police but they just don't seem interested in catching the culprits.
'I've decided to join Mums' Army because I feel as if no one's listening to me. Decent people shouldn't have to live in fear.'
Tel: 07787 315859

Caerau, Cardiff: Maria Greenslade

2007-12-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

When Maria Greenslade's disabled brother Sam was chased by yobs and trapped inside a phonebox, she expected the police to take action. Instead they told her mother to keep Sam indoors in future - as he is too vulnerable to go out.
Maria, 32, of Caerau, Cardiff, contacted Mums Army and explained: 'Sam is wheelchair-bound but it doesn't stop him leading a normal life.
'When Mum told me what the police had said I was appauled. I have two sons of my own and my youngest has the same condition as Sam. They should be free to go out like everyone else, not made to feel isolated.'
She added: 'The park is littered with drug paraphernalia and overrun by teenagers in the evening.
'My eldest boy is scared to go out on his own. He scales a 6ft wall to his gran's house just to avoid walking past the gangs.
'Most kids around here roam the streets during the day, having been excluded from school. Their behaviour is so bad I'm sending my youngest son to a school 40 minutes away.
'I have decided to join Mums' Army because at the moment we are still the majority. We need to unite to save our community.'
Maria Greenslade
Caerau
Cardiff
Tel: 07999 864214

Darlington, County Durham: Mick Neave

2007-11-29T03:47:00.000-08:00

One week after having a heart operation, Mick Neave was taking his rubbish out when he noticed a gang of youths in the street.
One of the boys shouted: 'What the **** are you looking at?'
The yob raced over and struck him on the arm with a length of wood.
Mick, 57, of Darlington, County Durham, told Mums' Army: 'When I straightened up, he hit me again. Then I saw another youth coming towards me and I lashed out with my fist, which caught him in the face. Thankfully that was enough to scare them off.
'Half an hour later I felt a pain in my chest and reached for the heart-monitoring device on my belt. That's when I realised it was missing. The police think the boys stole it during the attack because it looks like an iPod or mobile phone.
'I'm supporting Mums' Army because although the kids on my estate are kind and well-behaved, not all youngsters are being taught respect.
'When you can't even put the rubbish out for fear of being mugged, you know things have got out of control.'
Mick Neave,
Darlington,
County Durham
Tel: 07780 787699

Poole, Dorset: Sue Luckham

2007-11-22T04:52:00.000-08:00

When Sue Luckham saw a young lad staring at her cat, she smiled and said: 'That's Tigger. She's very friendly, you can stroke her if you want.'
In response the boy glared at her and said: 'I hate cats. I'm going to kill it.'
A shocked Sue, 55, of Poole, Dorset, contacted Mums' Army and said: 'The children in this area have no discipline. Kids roam the streets with catapults, breaking windows with stones and attacking pets.
'The language they use is disgusting and the police have made a series of drug raids.
'Children aren't born bad. But I'm worried that if they don't get the support they need, they will grow into adult yobs. I'm working with the council to set up facilities for them.
'I want to give the kids something positive to do and help them to learn skills that will benefit them later in life.
'I'm joining Mums' Army because I can't do it alone. Tackling antisocial behaviour isn't just a job for the police. If we want a safer community we have to do our bit too.'
Sue Luckham,
Poole, Dorset
E-mail: sueluckhamstt@aol.com

Sea Mills, Bristol: Maureen Stucky

2007-11-15T02:24:00.000-08:00

The walls of the flat shuddered and Maureen Stucky winced as the dreaded noise came again.
Bang, bang, bang. A gang of teenage yobs were pounding on her front and windows.
Maureen, 48, of Sea Mills, Bristol, called the Mums' Army Hotline and said: 'They'd been doing it for weeks but whenever I called the police they just acted as if I was wasting their time and said: 'What's the matter now?'
'I went to my bedroom and waited for the noise to stop. When I came out I realised why the kids had gone - my front door was on fire.
'By the time the fire brigade turned up I'd extinguished the flames myself but they still took me to hospital as a precaution.
'The police said that the fire had destroyed any evidence, so the kids got off scot-free.'
Maureen added: 'I'm not the only one around here these yobs have terrorised. A friend of mine, who's blind, moved away after they broke into her flat, pushed her to the floor and stole £500.
'Since all this happened, I've been rehoused. But antisocial behaviour is everywhere. I'm joining Mums' Army because something must be done.'
Maureen Stucky,
Sea Mills, Bristol
Tel: 0117 968 8889

Thorntree, Middlesbrough: Michelle Weston

2007-11-08T08:23:00.000-08:00

When Michelle Weston heard shouting outside her home, she rushed to see what was going on. Opening her front door, she found her neighbour leaning against a fence clutching his stomach and moaning in pain.
Michelle, 31, of Thorntree, Middlesbrough, explains: 'He had two black eyes and his nose was bleeding. He told me he'd gone outside to confront a group of lads after one of them spat in his little girl's face.
'Instead of apologising, they hit him, shoving him to the ground and taking it in turns to punch and kick him before fleeing.
'His wife made five calls to 999 but it took seven hours before they sent someone round. At hospital an X-ray showed that his nose was broken.
'I'm disgusted that it took the police so long to arrive. The same boys who beat up my neighbour hang around outside our local shops in the evenings. None of them are over 16 but the shopkeepers and customers are all terrified of them.
'I'm joining Mums' Army because I've got four young kids and I'm determined to make this a better place for them to grow up.'
Michelle Weston,
Thorntree, Middlesbrough
Tel: 07891 775169

Grimsby, Lincolnshire: Danielle Lewis

2007-11-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

Danielle Lewis stared in horror at the glittering shards of glass spread across her living room floor. Her eyes also fell on the red brick lying amongst them. That was what had just smashed her front window.
She called the police.
‘My home is being targeted by yobs.’ She said. ‘Please, can you help us?’
They responded by installing a panic alarm in Danielle’s front room. But still the thugs continued to intimidate her family without fear of retribution.
Danielle, 25, of Grimsby, Lincolnshire, called the Mums’ Army Hotline. She told us what was happening in Duke Street, just round the corner from 125 Rutland Street - identified by us as the Worst Address in Britain.
She said: ‘Teenagers sit on my husband’s car smoking and drinking alcohol. When we ask them to move they refuse and start shouting abuse at us.
‘One night I caught them attempting to steal my little girl’s pet rabbit from the back garden. I can’t even leave washing on the line for fear that it’ll be stolen.
‘Everything has been reported to the police but they say we need evidence, so we’ve installed three CCTV cameras outside our house.’
She added: ‘I’m joining Mums’ Army because I don’t want to be forced out of my home. They should relocate the families who cause this chaos – not us.’
Danielle Lewis,
Grimsby, Lincolnshire
E-mail: groovychick_23@hotmail.co.uk

Dagenham, Greater London: Linda Jennings

2007-10-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

Linda Jennings joined Mums' Army after two of her children were attacked on their way home from school.
Then she saw the news about the shooting of 11-year-old Rhys Jones and decided she had to do more.
She headed into central London and personally delivered a letter to the Prime Minister at No 10 Downing Street.
In it Linda, 45, of St George's Road, Dagenham, Greater London, said: 'The policing of this country - or lack of it - has condemned us all to live in fear and intimidation.
My concern is for the future of my family and other decent citizens.
We've let this happen because we've not spoken out until now.'
Among other things she called for were the return of corporal punishment and greater powers for both parents and police.
She added: 'We may then be able to go out day or night without fear and intimidation. Youth crime must be stopped.'
Linda received a reply from Downing Street which said: 'Mr Brown is as shocked and saddened by this horrific crime as the rest of the country.
His thoughts at this time are with Rhys's family and friends.'
Linda's letter was being forwarded to the Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith, and we will report her response.
Linda Jennings,
Dagenham, Greater London
E-mail: dagenhammumsarmy@aol.com

Kirkheaton, West Yorkshire: Alan Malpass

2007-10-18T07:35:00.000-07:00

The letterbox rattled and Alan Malpass picked up a scrap of paper from the mat.
There were words scrawled clumsily across it. He started to read...
You fat git. You better get out. We're gonna burn your house down. If you think one smashed window is bad we're gonna do the rest of them too.
A gang of teenage thugs had been targetting his home for months.
Alan took the anonymous note to the police station. 'Look, I'm living in fear,' he told officers. 'Can't you do anything about it?'
He also asked the council to move him. All of this was in vain.
Alan, 34, of Kirkheaton, West Yorkshire, told Mums' Army: 'Because I hadn't been physically attacked, the council said they couldn't do anything. I can't believe that someone has to be hurt or even killed before they will help us.
'Teenagers run riot through our garden at all times of the day and night, and hang around in th street shouting and swearing. After they'd put a brick through our landing window my little girl was too scared to sleep upstairs.
'I can't let my daughters play in the garden and the stress is affecting my health.
'I'm backing Mums' Army because no one seems to be taking the problem seriously. The police have warned me not to confront the youths but why should we live in fear while they are allowed to run riot?'
Alan Malpass,
Kirkheaton, West Yorkshire
Tel: 07789 971434

Basildon, Essex: Marcelle Dormer

2007-10-04T03:12:00.000-07:00

After suffering three years of antisocial behaviour, Marcelle Dormer decided to throw in the towel and move. But once she'd arrived at her new home, she discovered she might as well have stayed put.
Marcelle, 36, a mum of seven, of Basildon, Essex, contacted Mums' Army and said: 'It started with kids kicking our puppy under the fence. When I blocked the gap so they couldn't do it any more, they destroyed the top of our wall and tormented him from there instead.
'Since then we've had our windows put through and our car wrecked. We installed CCTV cameras but one of them was stolen. Children ring our doorbell in the middle of the night and bash on our windows.'
She said: 'The police do all they can but we need the council to provide safe, supervised facilities where youngsters can do something positive instead of terrorising the neighbourhood.
'I'm supporting Mums' Army because it's no good running away from the problem. We need to stand firm and fight it.'
Marcelle Dormer,
Basildon, Essex
Tel: 07846 359138

Milton Keynes, Bucks: Grace Quinn

2007-09-13T02:58:00.000-07:00

When Grace Quinn saw her neighbour's car being set alight, she immediately called the police. After they failed to show up, she called the Mums' Army Hotline.
Grace, 65, of Milton Keynes, Bucks, said: 'One of my neighbours had three cars stolen in four months, and the lady next door had hers set on fire. But the police did nothing.
'Our local shops are a no-go area in the evenings because there are so many muggings. Most shops are now closing down.
'And my grown-up daughter refuses to take her mobile phone with her when she walks the dog because she's afraid of being attacked for it.
'When I moved here 34 years ago to raise my family, it was a nice, quiet place. I'm so saddened by the fact that my grandchildren aren't allowed to play outside because it's no longer safe.
'We were promised high-visibility police patrolling our streets, which is exactly what we need. Instead we've got local community officers who don't even have the power of arrest.
'I'm supporting Mums' Army because I want the authorities to start keeping their promises and get more involved before it's too late.'
Grace Quinn,
Milton Keynes, Bucks
E-mail: grace.quinn@btinternet.com

Southall, Greater London: Sharon Bartlett

2007-09-06T02:27:00.000-07:00

Returning from the shops one day, Sharon Bartlett found her car windscreen had been shattered. Neighbours told her that a gang of teenagers had been fighting on her vehicle.
She called the police and when nothing happened, she contacted Mums' Army.
Sharon, 51, of Southall, Greater London, said: 'We know who's responsible but the police won't do anything. My neighbour was put in hospital by a gang of yobs, and even then officers took three weeks to show up.
'Kids hang around outside our house dealing drugs and there's no one there to stop them. I saw patrol officers on our street once. They cautioned my neighbour's little girl, who has learning difficulties, for chalking on the pavement.
'We get no support from the authorities and it's time for things to start changing around here.
'I don't want my 12-year-old son growing up to be a yob. I'm joining Mums' Army because I believe that if we stand together, we can do something about it.'
Sharon Bartlett,
Southall, Greater London
Tel: 07773 205688

Carmarthen: Suzanne Wareham

2007-08-30T03:58:00.000-07:00

Working in Woolworths, Suzanne Wareham is constantly abused by local teenagers.
Suzanne, 42, of Carmarthen, told Mums' Army: 'I have four kids and live in a small town that was lovely and peaceful when I was a child. But over the past few years our community has deteriorated.
'When I try to prevent some teenagers from shoplifting they get confrontational and irate. They hang about in big gangs and are out on the streets until all hours of the night. They can be aggressive, especially towards the vulnerable - like the elderly and those with learning difficulties.
'I'm joining Mums' Army because I believe something has to be done to save our society.'
Suzanne Wareham,
Carmarthen
Tel: 07743 952423

Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan: Deborah Davies

2007-08-23T02:55:00.000-07:00

While waiting at a bus stop, Deborah Davies's son, Owain, 14, was attacked by a group of teenagers. The yobs called him names because of his long hair and dark gothic clothes. Then they punched him in the face and left him lying in the street.
Deborah, 49, of Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, contacted Mums' Army and said: 'When Owain came home there was no white in his right eye. He was in agony.
'We rushed him to hospital and doctors told us that severe trauma had caused bleeding behind the eyeball.
'We called the police who promised to send an officer round immediately. But we rang them three more times and even got in touch with the Police Complaints Commission before an officer actually arrived - almost a week later. And still no further action has been taken.
'Since we have spoken out about the attack, other parents of victimsed children have come forward.
'There's a gang culture emerging here yet the police insist there isn't a problem.
'Every time my kids go out I'm afraid of what might happen to them.
'I've decided to join Mums' Army because we have to unite so we can force the police to do their job.'
Deborah Davies,
Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan
E-mail: grant.davies3@ntlworld.com

Rosyth, Fife: Angela Easton

2007-08-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

When Angela Easton's four-month-old son Kirk suffered a brain haemorrhage, he spent more than a month in hospital fighting for his life before she could take him home.
On their return, a gang of drunken yobs was there to welcome them. Angela, 24, of Rosyth, Fife, contacted Mums' Army and said: 'They were screaming and shouting right outside Kirk's bedroom window.'
She went out and told them: 'My baby has had a very bad accident and he really needs some peace and quiet. Please keep it down or move away from our house.'
The gang responded with name-calling, foul language and disrespect.
Angela said: 'I'd never expect anyone to speak to me like that, let alone kids. It makes me worry what kind of adults they're going to grow into.
'In the warm weather they're outside our house every night. I've seen a drunk teenage boy lying unconscious in the street. My seven-year-old son has been shot with a BB gun, our house is covered in spray paint and eggs, and my children's toys have been stolen from our garden.
'And it's not just teenagers. Even younger kids are following their lead. They're out of control but the police won't take action.
'I've decided to join Mums' Army because everyone here is complaining but no one is doing anything to solve the problem.'
Angela Easton,
Rosyth, Fife
angeeaston@googlemail.com

Llandudno, Conwy: Natasha Hill

2007-07-19T07:59:00.000-07:00

When Natasha Hill returned home one day, she was horrified to find she'd been targeted by mindless yobs. The flat she lives in with her two-year-old daughter Sophie-Jade had been ransacked.
Natasha, 22, of Llandudno, Conwy, told Mums' Army: 'My sofa was covered in blood and my little girl's cot was broken and burnt with cigarettes.'
Natasha and young Sophie-Jade, who was recovering from meningitis, were placed in a council refuge for four months while the incident was investigated.
They moved back into their home when the main culprit was caught. A 21-year-old heroin addict and prostitute was arrested and received only one year's probation.
'I just don't feel safe,' said Natasha.
'Our neighbourhood is full of drug users and antisocial gangs, but the police do nothing.
'My elderly neighbours have had their home vandalised and we've been woken up in the middle of the night by people repeatedly ringing our buzzers and kicking our doors.
'I'm joining Mums' Army because I want my daughter and my neighbours to feel secure. We need to come together as a community and put pressure on the police and the council to take action.'
Natasha Hill,
Llandudno, Conwy
E-mail: dudnomumsarmy@aol.com

Norwich, Norfolk: Connie Bolton

2007-07-05T02:59:00.000-07:00

It was the latest in a series of incidents, so when a gang of teenage boys kicked Connie Bolton’s dustbin into the road, she went outside to confront them. She was on crutches and had to be helped by a neighbour. She told the boys: ‘Put it back.’
They didn’t. Instead they turned on her.
Connie, 31, contacted the Mums’ Army Hotline and said: ‘One of the boys hurled a rock and it hit my neighbour on the back of the head. They shouted abuse and used foul language. Their behaviour was disgusting.
‘During the year that I’ve lived here, the situation has got worse. Youths smash my windows and I don’t feel safe even walking to the local shop.
‘We call the police but if they turn up, it’s always too late. The council doesn’t care and tells us to go to the police — we can’t win.
‘A lot of people here feel the same. They’re afraid to go outside and they’re scared to stand up for themselves. I’m joining Mums’ Army because I know that it’s the only way I can do something to help my family and neighbours. I want more support from the police so we can live in safety.’
Connie Bolton,
Norwich, Norfolk
Tel: 07840 651904

Luton, Bedfordshire: Andrea Blagg

2007-06-28T03:06:00.000-07:00

Since Andrea Blagg’s family moved into their new home they have been targeted by antisocial neighbours.
Having reached the end of her tether, Andrea, contacted Mums’ Army and said: ‘It started with youths kicking balls at our garage. We asked nicely time and time again for them to stop, but they ignored us and called us insulting names.
‘When our friend’s car was dented outside our house we decided to gather video evidence of any more criminal damage. Even though the police agreed this was a good idea, our neighbours brandished us paedophiles and we were ordered to stop because they made a complaint - while our complaints made no difference.
‘The abuse continued and the police told us to keep antisocial behaviour diaries. But things only got worse and I was punched in the face by a neighbour who warned me not to call the police again.
‘Determined to stand my ground, I reported the incident. After five days my neighbour was arrested and only received a caution for the assault, as the police didn't bother taking it to court.
‘The neighbours involved have been warned by the council but still the abuse, intimidation and harassment continue. We’re told that four diaries filled with incidents of antisocial behaviour aren’t enough evidence, and we've had enough. Things have to change, and antisocial behaviour has to be tackled now.’
Andrea Blagg,
Luton, Bedfordshire
E-mail: andrea.blagg@virgin.net

St Leonards, East Sussex: Gemma Bailey

2007-06-21T06:54:00.000-07:00

Sickened that her mother is victimised by local youths, Gemma Bailey contacted Mums’ Army.
Gemma, 21, says: ‘My mum suffers terribly as young people play football and cause havoc at the side of her house.
'Their abuse is absolutely disgusting and they constantly swear at her but nothing has been done about it.
‘A lot of car crime and criminal damage is carried out during the night but the council and police don’t seem to see how serious it is.
‘I hope that by joining Mums’ Army I’ll be able to help make my area a decent place to live.’
Gemma Bailey,
St Leonards, East Sussex
E-mail: gemma.bailey@yahoo.co.uk

Ely, Cardiff: Laura Thomas

2007-06-21T06:52:00.000-07:00

When the council put up new housing opposite her home Laura Thomas and her family suffered.
Laura, 20, explains: ‘They built on our community play area and the people who moved in there made our lives hell.
'My brother, sister and I were bullied. They taunted my mum, threw things at the house and damaged our car.
‘When we asked the council to fix the problem they offered no solutions. No one helped. The police told us to keep a log of the incidents but that didn't achieve anything.
‘I’m joining Mums’ Army for my mum Lynn and all the others who have suffered because of abusive yobs.’
Laura Thomas,
Ely, Cardiff
E-mail: dude2sweet228378@hotmail.com

Leven, Fife: Iona Brand

2007-06-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

When her friend’s 10-year-old daughter found a plastic bag full of used syringes, Iona Brand said: 'Enough is enough.'
Iona, 38, called Mums’ Army and said: ‘It’s shocking that drug addicts are dumping their dirty needles where our children play.
‘There have been problems here for more than 10 years and we're still fobbed off by the authorities, who are allowing drug users to put our lives at risk.
‘I’m joining Mums’ Army because we deserve a safe place to bring up our kids. I'll do whatever I can to clean up our community.’
Iona Brand,
Leven, Fife
E-mail: mike.iona@blueyonder.co.uk

Wrexham, Clywd: Lisa Behrendt

2007-06-14T07:12:00.000-07:00

Returning home from holiday, Lisa Behrendt and her disabled son Liam, 11, were greeted by the gang of yobs that had been tormenting them for months.
Lisa, 30, said: ‘There were 15 of them standing on my wall and around the garden path. They hurled their usual sick abuse at us, teasing Liam about his wheelchair and speech problems.
‘He was distraught and I couldn't take any more. I confronted the ringleader and said: ‘I’ve had enough of the upset you cause. Leave my son alone!’
He was so shocked I'd stood up to him that he tripped over his bike and ran home.
‘Three days later, I was arrested. The boy claimed I'd attacked him and I was accused of all sorts of other things.
'Thankfully the police were sympathetic. They believed that I hadn’t touched him, and they could see I was at the end of my tether after suffering months of abuse.
‘My family and I keep to ourselves but I refuse to stand by and watch innocent people - especially children with disabilities - being bullied.
'I hope that by speaking out about what has happened to us, I can help other decent families gain the strength to fight back.’

Irlam, Greater Manchester: Alexis Noble

2007-06-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

When Alexis Noble allowed her two daughters to play outside their home in the early evening, she was horrified to find that they were threatened by a knife-wielding gang.
Alexis, 48, decided to contact Mums’ Army. She said: ‘A group of teenage boys approached them, pulled out a knife, then laughed in their faces.’
Her daughters Grace, eight, and Amy, 13, ran home in tears.
‘I have three children who are all well behaved and I don’t want to live like this,' says Alexis. 'It isn't safe to go out at night while gangs of youths hang about on street corners.
‘I know there are others here who feel the same. They're scared. I haven’t seen any police officers on our streets and we have no support.
‘When I read about Mums’ Army I knew it was my chance to do something. If more people help, more will be done.’
Alexis Noble,
Irlam, Greater Manchester
E-mail: alexislesleynoble@yahoo.co.uk

Springboig, Glasgow: Liz Cooper

2007-05-31T03:43:00.000-07:00

When Liz Cooper’s autistic 13-year-old son Martin raced through their front door covered in blood, Liz, who is confined to a wheelchair, frantically dialled 999.
Liz, 38, explains: ‘Martin was playing with his basketball when three kids approached him. They took his ball and when he asked for it back, they hit him over the head with a brick.
They grabbed him by the hair and smashed his face against a fence, fracturing his cheekbone and breaking his nose. They kicked him, jumped on his head and back, then they whipped him with a rubber hose.
‘Thankfully a man passed by walking his dog, so Martin had the chance to run away. The boys chased him all the way home.
‘He was so badly beaten he was taken to hospital and examined by a facial specialist.
‘His attackers, who were aged 14 and under, were arrested and charged, but the case went no further than a children’s panel.
‘Because of his condition, Martin is very quiet,' says Liz. 'He now refuses to go outside without me. He has constant nightmares about the boys coming for him and he wakes up in a cold sweat.
‘I’m joining Mums’ Army because I want to encourage other families who have been victimised by antisocial behaviour to speak out. We have to work together to put a stop to it.’
Liz Cooper,
Springboig, Glasgow
E-mail: lilabet1@tesco.net

Martin Cooper after the attack

Lincoln: Sarah Smith

2007-05-24T03:37:00.000-07:00

Sarah Smith was taking her son out in his pram when they were approached by a knife-wielding drug addict. He pushed the buggy into a busy road, in front of traffic.
The same man then threatened Sarah's family a second time in their local park.
Sarah, 23, explains: ‘He came at my boyfriend and our two children with a metal bar, shouting and swearing. The police arrested him and he was given an ASBO, but he was still free to make our lives hell.
‘We’re not the only people he's targeted, and there are other drug addicts causing problems here. Many members of our community have been affected but they are too scared to speak out.
‘I’m supporting Mums’ Army because we can’t let these thugs get away it any longer. I hope that people with join with me to change our neighbourhood.’
Sarah Smith,
Lincoln
E-mail: wecky_bird@hotmail.com

Tredegar, Blaenau Gwent: Ann Jones

2007-05-17T06:39:00.000-07:00

When grandmother Ann Jones moved back to the neighbourhood where she grew up, she was shocked to see how it had been damaged by yobs.
Desperate for help after three frustrating years, Ann, 57, called Mums’ Army.
She said: ‘It’s like living on a rubbish tip. Cans and bottles are thrown everywhere and car ashtrays are emptied on the streets. When I ask youngsters to pick up their litter, they just laugh and swear at me. There’s no discipline anymore. It’s awful.
‘I wrote a letter of complaint to the council, which has been ignored, and even though the police admit they know who the troublemakers are, they say they can’t do anything.
‘I’m determined to clean up my neighbourhood. People say it’s always someone else’s problem but our community is our problem and we have to do something to bring back pride and respect.’
Ann Jones,
Tredegar, Blaenau Gwent
Tel: 07774 070406

Harraby, Cumbria: Jane-Ann Clark

2007-05-10T04:41:00.000-07:00

Two new Mums' Army campaigners have been hailed as heroes in their neighbourhood...
When a teenage girl moved into Jane-Ann Clark’s quiet street her community was turned upside down.
Jane-Ann, 30, of Harraby, Cumbria, called the Mums’ Army Hotline and said: ‘There were loud parties and constant disturbance. We couldn’t sleep and my newborn baby was kept awake all night. I was at my wits' end.
‘But with the help of Victim Support and my neighbour Debbie Downie, we fought to reclaim our street and lives. We kept antisocial behaviour diaries and stayed in contact with the police and housing association. Even though we were intimidated and scared of reprisals we took the girl to court three times and after six months of hell she was evicted.’
Jane-Ann and Debbie received a £1000 Respect award. Jane-Ann says: ‘We stood up to the problems here and have got a brilliant outcome. We’re giving the money to local schools and to the community centre. And by setting up a Harraby branch of Mums’ Army, Debbie and I hope to continue to improve our neighbourhood.’
Jane-Ann Clark,
Harraby, Cumbria
E-mail: janeannclark27@hotmail.com

Debbie and Jane-Ann with their children

Tumble, Carmarthenshire: Carys Evans

2007-05-10T04:30:00.000-07:00

After youths kicked down Carys Evans’ garden fence for a second time, her partner went outside to confront them and faced a stream of verbal abuse.
Carys, 31, called the Mums’ Army Hotline and said: ‘It’s not a bad area where we live but the kids have nothing to do. They hang around on the streets damaging property and being abusive and if things don’t change I’m worried about what they’ll do next.
‘I have five children - two with ADHD and learning difficulties. I don’t feel it’s safe to let them play outside. I’m joining Mums’ Army because there needs to be more to engage teenagers and to unite the community.’
Carys Evans,
Tumble, Carmarthenshire
Tel: 07875 228171

Mums' Army Heroes: Bruce Lawrence

2007-05-10T04:12:00.000-07:00

Only minutes away from the Mums’ Army headquarters in North London, local community worker Bruce Lawrence was stabbed when he confronted a suspected drug dealer. We want to commend Mr Lawrence for his bravery.
When he saw the man openly dealing drugs in broad daylight, he said: ‘Stop selling that rubbish.’
The man became aggressive and Mr Lawrence tackled him to the ground, and was knifed above his right ear.
After being treated at hospital Mr Lawrence, 32, who works with the disabled community in Kentish Town, said: ‘I want to send a message out to all these people who think they can sell drugs on the streets.
'We’re not putting up with it any longer. I hate all the drugs causing ruin and destruction in my neighbourhood. People here are starting to fight back.’

Durham: Roz Dunnill

2007-05-03T04:08:00.000-07:00

When a drunken yob on an illegal joyride crashed into Roz Dunnill’s car in the middle of the night, she was astounded when police let him get away.
Roz, 59, called the Mums’ Army Hotline and explained: ‘The police arrived but the officer turned his back on the boy and allowed him to run off. Days later the police called to investigate the theft of our car, when it hadn’t even been stolen!
I’m not surprised things are out of control when it seems the police have no idea what they’re doing. When decent people try to stand up to crime and antisocial behaviour, the authorities are not there to back them up. I’m joining Mums’ Army because if enough people speak out, the politicians will have to take notice.’
Roz Dunnill,
Durham
E-mail: Dunnillfamily@aol.com

Forres, Moray: Debbie Smith

2007-04-26T04:06:00.000-07:00

When a disruptive young single mum moved into Debbie Smith’s block of flats, Debbie was forced to protect her elderly neighbours.
Debbie, 41, called Mums’ Army and said: ‘She had a riotous party and people were starting fights with residents. When my husband and I asked them to have respect, I was thrown against a wall and landed on the base of my spine. I've been told I narrowly escaped being paralysed for life. Security buzzers are pressed during the night and one neighbour has put herself into a residential home to escape. The council needs to take action before something serious happens.’
Debbie Smith,
Forres, Moray
E-mail: debbiesmith04@btinternet.com

Camberwell, London: Vaunda Hoscik

2007-04-17T02:50:00.000-07:00

When pregnant mum Vaunda and her eight-year-old son arrived at their block of flats, they stepped into the lift and found it been vandalised in the most disgusting way. Vaunda was appalled and forced to struggle up six flights of stairs.
It was the latest of many incidents and it prompted her to call Mums' Army.
Vaunda, 32, explains: ‘Both my son and I have asthma and because I’m pregnant we need to use the lift. But the kids round here are utterly bored and create mischief.
'The places where they have to play are dangerous, near to car parks and overrun by dogs. There are plenty of areas the council could utilise but they seem to concentrate on creating facilities for adults.
‘Now even our local pizza place refuses to make deliveries. There's so much more that nees to be done for our children.
'I hope that by joining Mums’ Army, I will encourage other parents to voice their opinions so together we can change our community.’
Vaunda Hoscik,
Camberwell, London
E-mail: vaunmae1@aol.com

Wimbledon, London: Eileen Brunton

2007-04-03T04:23:00.000-07:00

Answering her mobile in the middle of the night, Eileen Brunton heard an anonymous caller say: ‘Watch your back. We know where you live.’
Eileen, 56, explains: ‘I’m too scared to leave the house and I'm frightened to be at home alone. Gangs of teenagers are victimising my granddaughter, Charley, 15, who lives with me. We’re terrified. They have attacked her and are constantly trying to get her on her own so they can beat her up again.
‘The police say there’s nothing they can do. I’ve had enough. I don’t want to live like this. It’s too dangerous to be outside at night. Things have to change. We need more police on the beat and more opportunities for young people, to keep them off the streets.’
Eileen Brunton,
Wimbledon, London
E-mail: eileen1nan@aol.com

Aldershot, Hampshire: Suzanne Louise Weller

2007-04-03T04:19:00.000-07:00

Asleep in her ground floor flat, Suzanne Louise Weller was terrified when a beer bottle smashed through her bedroom window.
Suzanne Louise, 35, says: ‘We’re targeted every weekend. It’s been non-stop for years and I can’t put up with it any longer. Youths have been caught by police, yet they're only warned or cautioned and then released. All the council do is tell me to keep a diary, and the housing association say not to look out of my windows at night.
‘My husband has been taken to hospital with stress. I suffer from epilepsy and the constant anxiety causes me to have fits. We’re worried what the future holds for our nine-year-old daughter. I know we have to take action.
‘I’m joining Mums’ Army because every week I read about other Take a Break readers having the same problems. We have to work together to put a stop to antisocial behaviour so our families can be safe.’
Suzanne Louise Weller,
Aldershot, Hampshire
Tel: 07816 893532

Swadlincote, Derbyshire: Betty Pett

2007-03-27T04:22:00.000-07:00

When 15-year-old Justine Pett heard a loud bang, she had no idea that yobs had just thrown a concrete slab through the family's living room window. She is partially sighted and has learning difficulties,
Justine’s mother Betty, 51, called the Mums’ Army Hotline in a desperate plea for help, saying: ‘Our windows are smashed, our car tyres are slashed and smoke bombs are posted through our letter box. A brick was thrown through the window of Justine’s specially modified bathroom and now she’s too afraid to use it.
‘The police say they can’t do anything without the names of the culprits, but they always strike in the dark. I’m joining Mums’ Army because I don’t want my family to live in fear.’
Betty Pett,
Swadlincote, Derby
E-mail: betty.pett1@btinternet.com

Halesowen, West Midlands: Laura Reynolds

2007-03-27T04:19:00.000-07:00

Single mother Laura Reynolds contacted Mums’ Army to fight for her community and her daughter, Faith, three.
Laura, 25, says: ‘There’s a breakdown in society that must be addressed. It’s seen as cool for young people to have little or no respect for others and if something isn’t done, things will only deteriorate further.
‘I work for a youth club which mediates between the local community and the youths, and now I’m setting up a branch of Mums’ Army to unite and strengthen my neighbourhood.’
Laura Reynolds,
Halesowen, West Midlands
E-mail: laurareynolds1981@yahoo.co.uk

Houghton le Spring, Tyne & Wear: Lisa Green

2007-03-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

When Lisa Green took her newborn baby to her sisters home, only a few doors away from her own, a gang of youths gathered outside.
They shouted abuse and hurled missiles at the windows.
Lisa approached them and said: ‘Please stop it, my baby can’t sleep.’ The youths pretended to apologise but when she turned her back, they attacked her.
Lisa, 26, told Mums’ Army: ‘I was pulled to the ground by my hair and kicked and punched from every direction. My family tried to help me but they were held back by youths with knives and broken bottles. The attack lasted 25 minutes, until the police arrived. One of the ring leaders was arrested and I was taken to hospital. I lost four teeth, had a suspected fractured cheekbone, extensive bruising and impaired vision.
‘Weeks later, three more arrests were made. Yet all were released and no further action was taken. I was scared to go outside alone, but determined not to let my attackers get away with it. So finally I wrote to the Independent Police Complaints Commission and after my case was investigated, two officers were charged with misconduct.
‘All I wanted was for those responsible to be punished but when police failed to do that, I had to do something.
Lisa, of Houghton-le-Spring, has moved twice since her attack, which took place in Sunderland. She says: ‘I’m joining Mums’ Army because I want to do everything I can to help change things and protect my three children.’
Lisa Green,
Houghton le Spring, Tyne & Wear
Tel: 07858 302776

Gillingham, Kent: Amanda Kinslow

2007-03-16T05:58:00.000-07:00

When Eric Hazel tried to deliver a pizza he was approached by a group of six youths. They asked him to hand it over and when he refused he was clubbed over the head with a metal bar.
His girlfriend Amanda Kinslow was left so upset and angered by the incident that she contacted Mums’ Army. Amanda, 24, explains: ‘Eric had a serious head wound and he needed stitches. The police had evidence but failed to act on it and no action was taken against any of his attackers.
‘Is it any wonder that people are taking the law into their own hands when the police can’t be bothered to pull their fingers out and do what they're paid to do?’
‘I’m joining Mums’ Army because I have three young children and I refuse to fear for their safety.’
Amanda Kinslow,
Gillingham, Kent
Tel: 07882 408456

Folkestone, Kent: Joanne Westbrook

2007-03-08T05:50:00.000-08:00

After her son was head-butted in front of a teacher and his school failed to act, Joanne Westbrook decided to join Mums’ Army to combat bullying.
Joanne, 36, says: ‘My two children have both been bullied at school and nothing was done to protect them. What has happened to our human rights?
'We must teach children to respect their elders and put pressure on the authorities to administer discipline.’
Joanne Westbrook,
Folkestone, Kent
E-mail: jowest31@tiscali.co.uk

Bargeod, Caerphilly: Sue Laing

2007-03-08T05:46:00.000-08:00

When Mums’ Army campaigner Margaret Davies received a desperate call for help from a woman in the same yob-ridden community as her own daughter, she had to do something.
Margaret, 52, of Pontypool, Torfaen, says: ‘I was worried for my daughter and my grandchildren and wished I lived closer to them.’
With Margaret’s help and support, her daughter Sue Laing is starting her own branch of Mums’ Army in Bargeod, Caerphilly.
Mother-of-two Sue, 30, says: ‘Parts of my neighbourhood are marred by graffiti, violence and crime. People don’t feel safe to go out at night because teenagers have nothing to do except hang about on the streets.
‘I volunteer at a local youth club for under-11’s and I have a good relationship with members of my community, which I hope can be built on by joining Mums’ Army. Yob culture is something we can stop and I won’t sit back while people are scared to live here.’
Sue Laing: 07851 437671
Margaret Davies: 07776 405257

Islington, North London: Joan Ford

2007-03-01T05:45:00.000-08:00

When asked by ITV, Joan Ford willingly helped Tory MP Ann Widdecombe to publicly expose the antisocial behaviour that is destroying her community. But afterwards she rang the Mums' Army Hotline to say her family had been left vulnerable and victimised.
Joan, 54, told us: ‘The local youths are calling me a snitch and I’m scared for the safety of my son and granddaughter, who are both mentally disabled.’
When the ITV Tonight programme was broadcast, yobs on Islington’s Andover Estate went on the rampage and Joan’s neighbour, who was also interviewed by the MP, was driven out of her home by a firebomb.
Joan says: ‘Now youths are outside my house day and night, shouting abuse and throwing bricks at the windows. My 16-year-old granddaughter needs my supervision 24 hours a day and my son refuses to go outside after being attacked at the local shops.
‘We have no support. The only advice authorities have given is to take photographs, but I’m too frightened. I’m joining Mums’ Army because we need protection. I don’t want to be forced out of my home.’
Joan Ford,
Islington, North London
E-mail: andovermumsarmy@yahoo.com

MP Ann Widdecombe interviews Joan Ford

Biddenden, Kent: Amanda Knott

2007-03-01T05:40:00.000-08:00

For three years Amanda Knott lived in an area overrun by gangs of youths. She contacted Mums’ Army to say: ‘It was the last straw when they threw eggs at my car and caused us to almost have an accident.
'I challenged the teenagers, who swore at me and couldn’t have cared less. Then I called the police to report the incident and they didn’t even bother to follow it up.’
Amanda, 40, has since moved to Biddenden, Kent, with her two children.
She says: ‘Even though we’re now part of a close-knit community with good policing, the youngsters hang around on the playing fields at night because there is nothing for them to do.
‘I hope Mums’ Army can help me to create more opportunities for young people.’
Amanda Knott,
Biddenden, Kent
Tel: 07900 251554

Dagenham, Kent: Linda Jennings

2007-02-23T04:16:00.000-08:00

When Linda Jennings’s son was 10, he was attacked on his way home from school. After phoning the police for two weeks, she eventually managed to persuade them to take action. But all they did was talk to her son’s attacker.
Linda, 44, says: ‘It’s a shame that when your kids go out they’re faced with the constant worry of intimidation.
'I’m joining Mums’ Army and intend to stand in the local elections this May because we need more policing. We must work with young people to reclaim a decent quality of life for all.’
Linda Jennings,
Dagenham, Greater London
E-mail: dagenhammumsarmy@aol.com

Mums' Army: Local Elections 2007

2007-02-23T03:21:00.000-08:00

It’s not long until Thursday 3 May, when Take a Break readers will have the chance to stand for their local council as candidates for Mums’ Army.
We are determined to give them our support. We hope you will give them your votes.
Last year Mums’ Army put up a creditable performance in the local elections, with two of our candidates polling more than their Conservative rivals.
And this May we believe we can make an even bigger impact by providing a political platform for women across the nation. This is an important opportunity to make your voice heard.
Here are the first three confirmed candidates…

Steph Diamond
Cullompton, Devon
‘My community is very frustrated. The police are trying hard to tackle antisocial behaviour but the system is stopping them. I hope that the people who are frightened will speak out through their vote on 3 May.’
Tel: 01884 840059

Beverley Warren
Blackpool, Lancashire
‘I feel sure that I can make a difference because most people in my ward now know me and recognise what I stand for. We will make an impact on 3 May.’
Tel: 01253 692025

Linda Martin
Shoeburyness, Essex
‘Since I stood in last year’s elections, the antisocial behaviour here has got worse. People in my community have seen why Mums’ Army is so important and we’ve proved we’re not a whim. I want to be a candidate again - things have to change.’
Tel: 07778 524966

Contact us for more information if you would like to stand as a Mums’ Army candidate in the local elections on 3 May.

Scarborough, North Yorkshire: Mandi Marshall

2007-02-23T03:10:00.000-08:00

Mandi Marshall and five other mothers in her community have joined together to form a branch of Mums’ Army in Scarborough, North Yorkshire.
Mandi, 36, phoned the Mums’ Army Hotline to say: ‘We have a problem with antisocial behaviour and when anyone tries to stand against it, they are abused and their windows are smashed. It has to stop.
‘When people have the strength and courage to go to the police, the criminal system lets them down. Everybody deserves a fair trial and a second chance, but offenders are being allowed to constantly re-offend.
‘We want to make our community safe for our children.’
Mandi Marshall,
Scarborough, North Yorkshire
E-mail: scarboroughmumsarmy@hotmail.co.uk

Oldham, Greater Manchester: Emma O'Toole

2007-02-23T03:07:00.000-08:00

Forced out of their home by yobs, Emma O'Toole had to flee with her four-year-old son, Connor. Then Emma’s promises to return there in time for his fifth birthday were shattered when they received a call to say their house had been set on fire.
Emma, 24, explains: ‘We’re lucky we weren’t at home — the whole of the downstairs was gutted. The police realise local youths are responsible yet I know they’ll get away with it.
‘Connor has learning difficulties but he understands what’s happened. He has nightmares about the fire and worries that burglars are coming to get him. Something must be done so our children can feel safe in their own homes.’
Emma O'Toole,
Oldham, Greater Manchester
E-mail: happyblonde_1@msn.com

Northwest Germany: Nikki Irons

2007-02-12T05:13:00.000-08:00

As an Army wife, Nikki Irons and her family live on a protected base in northwest Germany.
But when her 15-year-old neighbour was pinned to the ground outside his home and had a bottle pushed in his face, she contacted Mums’ Army for help.
Mother-of-three, Nikki, 30, says: ‘After spending six hours in surgery, the poor boy lost his eye and the police let his teenage attacker go free.
‘Our home was burgled by a 14-year-old boy who'd committed previous offences but he also walked away unpunished.
'Bad behaviour isn’t just confined to Britain. Here in Germany they are also letting young people get away with it and it has to stop.’
Nikki Irons,
Northwest Germany
E-mail: nikki2476@hotmail.com

Leeds, West Yorkshire; Angela Gardener

2007-02-12T05:04:00.000-08:00

Every day for two years Angela Gardener and her two daughters endured racial abuse from their neighbours. Now that it is over she is determined to help others through Mums’ Army.
Angela, 29, says: ‘My children were afraid to come home from school or play outside and we were kept awake at night. The police and housing association did nothing.
'The problems got worse and I was so stressed I ended up in hospital. I gained the strength to continue fighting and wrote endless letters to local newspapers, MPs, police and various officials. Eventually, thanks to the housing ombudsman and my children’s school, we were moved.
‘I want people to know that if you put up a fight you can change things.’
Angela Gardener,
Leeds, West Yorkshire
E-mail: 07845898278@o2imail.co.uk

South Kelsey, Lincolnshire: Sara Bailey

2007-02-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

Sara’s teenage son suffered from years of bullying until the day he came home and told her: ‘If I go to school tomorrow, I won’t come back. They’re going to bring a gun and use it on me.’
Single mum Sara, 41, explains: ‘The school wouldn’t take action, so I did. It was the last straw. I took my son out of school and taught him at home. 'He’s now 17 and has passed his exams at the local college. With first-hand experience of the damage bullying and antisocial behaviour can cause, I'm joining Mums’ Army to provide a voice for families in similar situations.’
Sara Bailey,
South Kelsey, Lincolnshire
E-mail: bailey19@btinternet.com

Gosport, Hampshire: Lisa Wise

2007-02-12T04:58:00.000-08:00

When Lisa approached a group of young people who were swearing loudly outside her front door, she was surprised at their reaction. They apologised and walked quietly away.
Lisa, 42, says: ‘All isn’t lost with the youth of today. We must provide positive role models and pressure authorities into creating opportunities so that youngsters can have somewhere to go and something to do.’
Lisa Wise,
Gosport, Hampshire
Tel: 02392 524866
E-mail: martin.wise2@ntlworld.com

Faversham, Kent: Tracy Ashworth

2007-01-29T07:43:00.000-08:00

When Tracy Ashworth joined Mums’ Army three months ago she was warned by a police officer: ‘Don’t go out after dark and stay away from your windows.’
But Tracy refused to be cowed. She made headlines in her local paper in Faversham, Kent, determined to make people in power take notice and allow families like hers to live in safety.
She and her two daughters have been moved to a safer home.
Tracy says: ‘This wouldn’t have happened without Mums’ Army and I want to help other people in the same situation — no one should be made to live in fear.’
Tracy Ashworth,
Faversham, Kent
Tel: 07852 364915

Falkirk, Scotland: Dawna Chisholm

2007-01-29T07:37:00.000-08:00

Hard work and creativity united the community when Dawna Chisholm used her branch of Mums’ Army to create a youth art project.
Dawna, 33, says: ‘I became a member of the tenants and residents association and we ran a competition in local schools to find the best designs for themed murals. These were then painted by young people on three of the town’s underpasses.’
Falkirk Council awarded Dawna £4400 to fund the project.
She says: ‘We successfully diverted young people away from crime and antisocial behaviour by providing them with a way to express themselves creatively. Now they are proud of their achievements. The community as a whole feels positive and the council is planning to repeat this elsewhere. Young people want to see changes just as much as we do.’
Dawna Chisholm,
Falkirk
E-mail: star4u_12345@yahoo.com

Sunderland, Tyne & Wear: Sandra Rowell

2007-01-26T05:19:00.000-08:00

Ordinary people like Sandra Rowell, of Sunderland, are finding ways to fight yobbish behaviour and take back their towns.
After she filmed yobs rampaging through the local park on motorbikes, Sandra Rowell forced the police to take action. She is now busy changing the face of her neighbourhood.
Sandra, 52, says: ‘When I joined Mums’ Army, our local park was overrun by motorbikes and drunken louts in stolen cars.
'After speaking out in the local newspaper and pressuring the police and council, I arranged for park gates to be fitted and made sure that they were locked every night.
‘Because I joined Mums’ Army I now live in a peaceful area. Mums’ Army gives ordinary people a voice loud enough to be heard by those who abuse the law and think they can do what they like. We’re here to stay and we will only get stronger.’
Sandra Rowell,
Sunderland, Tyne & Wear
Tel: 0191 551 6551
E-mail: sandra-rowell@hotmail.com

Kidderminster, Worcestershire: Rosemary Bishop

2007-01-18T08:30:00.000-08:00

When Rosemary Bishop challenged a group of nearly 50 youths who were ravaging her neighbourhood, they launched a personal attack on her and her family.
Rosemary, 56, contacted Mums’ Army to say: ‘I was subjected to verbal abuse, my family was threatened, my windows were smashed and parts of dead animals were left on my step. I was forced to call the police again and again. This went on for two years.
‘I wasn’t the only one being victimised, but the police couldn’t do anything without witnesses. I was the only one willing to stand up in court, and eventually five ASBOs were given.
‘I formed a neighbourhood action group and now things are improving. Even though the youths destroyed my life, I don’t regret challenging them, and I want to continue to better my community.’
Rosemary Bishop,
Kidderminster, Worcestershire
Tel: 07905 529081

Lincoln: Mary Martin

2007-01-12T04:37:00.000-08:00

When she first saw him, Mary Martin hardly recognised the blood-covered figure of her 23-year-old son.
Mary, 49, called the Mums’ Army Hotline to say: ‘This is the third time he’s been attacked by thugs and now he’s terrified to go out.
‘I called the police right away and they said they’d try to send someone out soon. Days later we’re still waiting.
‘The police don’t want to know and neither does the community — two drivers and a man witnessed the attack and did nothing. I’m joining Mums’ Army in the hope that people will band together to offer each other support and force the Government to protect the victims and not the criminals.’
Mary Martin,
Lincoln
Tel: 07757 279517
E-mail: sweetheartmary196@hotmail.com

Purley, Greater London: Jackie Fullbrook

2007-01-04T04:09:00.000-08:00

After two of her children were threatened by knife-wielding yobs, Jackie Fullbrook, 37, contacted Mums’ Army.
She explains: ‘For seven years my six children were afraid to walk down the street, and even within our home we were intimidated. Yobs shouted abuse, banged on our door and posted offensive items through our letterbox.
‘The police told us they couldn’t do anything because the youths were under 16 and the council said they couldn’t rehouse us for nine years! So we were forced to move. I want to stop other families from suffering.’
Jackie Fullbrook,
Purley, Greater London
E-mail: jackiefullbrook78@msn.com

Harlow, Essex: Melanie Hopwood

2007-01-04T04:02:00.000-08:00

When Melanie Hopwood answered the phone in the middle of the night, a relative said: ‘Your Tommy’s been stabbed.’
By the time she arrived at hospital, her son Tommy, 16, had been pronounced dead, with a single stab wound to the chest.
A distraught Melanie, 34, is still unsure of the full circumstances and is joining Mums’ Army to fight knife crime.
She says: ‘I have an 18-month-old baby son who won’t even remember the big brother who doted on him. I want the Government to clamp down on the possession of knives and enforce stricter punishment.’
Melanie Hopwood,
Harlow, Essex
E-mail: mel@tommyslaw.co.uk

Tommy as a young boy

Chester-le-Street, County Durham: Tracy Hannon

2006-12-19T07:06:00.000-08:00

When Tracy Hannon looked out of her window, she was shocked to see a group of boys had congregated outside. Next thing she knew, her family was under attack.
Mother of seven, Tracy, 36, says: ‘My daughter and partner went to speak to the boys and suddenly the youths hurled bricks at them and shouted abuse. ’
But the real disgrace, Tracy believes, was how the police handled everything.
Tracy says: ‘They came and arrested the boys, who denied all the charges. Officers said there was no point taking it any further because the courts wouldn’t back them up.
‘We’ve lived here for a year and in that time antisocial behaviour has got worse. The council say their hands are tied and the police say they don’t have the resources or are too busy to take action. We’ve never seen the local beat officer who's meant to patrol the streets.
‘It’s not good enough. Youths are being allowed to run riot because they know they can get away with it - that has to change. Something needs to be done to protect our families and our homes. If the police won’t help, then Mums’ Army will.’
Tracy Hannon,
Chester-le-Street, County Durham
Tel: 07913 887002

Portadown, County Armagh: Julie Moore

2006-12-19T07:05:00.000-08:00

After her daughter’s Girls’ Brigade mentor Lisa McClatchy was killed in a vicious arson attack, Julie Moore realised that things had to change.
Mother of five, Julie, 47, says: ‘My daughter is just one of many people who have been affected by this horrific crime. I am joining Mums’ Army to safeguard our community.
‘We have to do something to stop this mindless thuggery. Lisa and her boyfriend were horrifically beaten with a sledgehammer and set on fire in their own home by a group of masked men. How can you stop brutality like that unless changes start from within the home? We’re raising a generation of violent thugs and must join together to take responsibility and create opportunities for our children.
‘A lot of people in Northern Ireland are suffering in silence from antisocial behaviour. Gangs congregate on our streets, intimidating and attacking our families. Yet people won’t confront these louts as they know, along the youths, that no action will be taken against them. The police do nothing. When they’re called, they don’t respond so people have given up on them. It’s time for us to stand up and say this isn’t acceptable.’
Julie Moore,
Portadown, County Armagh
Tel: 07738 387936

Middlesbrough, North Yorks: Shahzear Rani

2006-12-19T07:03:00.000-08:00

After returning home late one night, Shahzear Rani decided to sleep in the living room so she wouldn’t wake her children. It was a decision that could have saved her family’s lives.
A short while later her two-year-old son crept downstairs to sleep beside her. It woke her up and she noticed a bright light outside. She went to investigate and saw their car had been smashed up and set alight.
Shahzear, 22, said: ‘Fumes were coming through the front door and there was no way out. I’d parked in front of the house because our car has been broken into so many times. I dialled 999 and woke my daughter and sister-in-law. We were terrified and ran to the garage at the back of the house.
‘The fire brigade came straight away but I dread to think what could have happened if I hadn’t been sleeping downstairs.
‘Two other cars had been targeted that night. Our neighbourhood often gets infested with drunken youths. It’s sad there’s nothing to occupy their time. My children are scared of being in their own home and I don’t want them becoming part of this culture. I want our streets patrolled and fitted with CCTV.’
Shahzear Rani,
Middlesbrough
Tel: 07786 400181

Mansfield, Nottinghamshire: Yobs say sorry

2006-12-13T08:31:00.000-08:00

At last some good news — the youngsters who apologised to the pensioner they left sprawled in the road...

Watching TV, Lyn Brashier was terrified when local youths hammered at her windows. It was the fifth night it had happened in the same week. So Lyn, 71, steeled herself and went outside to confront the yobs.
‘There were three boys aged about 12,’ she says. ‘I asked them why they were being a nuisance. They were shocked I had come out to face them and didn’t know what to say. When I told them I had already been through enough with cancer, they backed off.’
When Lyn turned to go back inside, she fell and broke her hip. The boys ran away leaving her lying in the middle of the road in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire.
‘At first I couldn’t move,’ says Lyn. ‘But I managed to crawl to the pavement before a car came along. Then my neighbours helped me inside my house to call for an ambulance.’
Lyn underwent a painful operation and spent almost two weeks in hospital.
‘When the story of my attack featured on the front page of my local newspaper I had some visitors,’ she says. ‘It was the boys. They came to apologise. I think they should be commended for visiting me on their own accord. They were genuinely sorry and two of them were crying. I was very surprised and pleased that they came. They have definitely learnt a lesson and I can forgive them for what they did because it shows they have some good in them.
‘I feel sorry for young people because they have nothing to do. When I was a teenager it was very different. There aren’t youth clubs or anything to occupy them. Something has gone wrong and the government and councils need to think more about the young.’
Lyn Brashier,
Mansfield, Nottinghamshire

Newport, Gwent: Deanne Sansome

2006-12-13T08:25:00.000-08:00

When Deanne local shop was yet again targeted by yobs, she contacted Mums’ Army. Deanne, 26, says: ‘Shop windows were smashed by boys who have been given antisocial behaviour orders for their previous vandalism. Yet I know the police will do nothing.
‘I’m joining Mums’ Army because I think the longer we ignore politics, the more problems we will have to face. I have three children I want to protect.’
Deanne Sansome,
Newport, Gwent
Tel: 07840 995309

Barnstaple, Devon: Stacey Elford

2006-12-13T08:24:00.000-08:00

Walking home down a dark alley after a night out with friends, Stacey Elford heard someone run up behind her. A thug in a hooded jacket ripped her handbag from her shoulder and threatened her with a knife.
A 16-year-old boy was arrested. He appeared in court on 11 counts of antisocial behaviour and yet he walked away without punishment.
Stacey, 28, explains: ‘I thought that justice would be done. But the boy has been in court so many times it doesn’t make any difference. We have to stand together. If things don’t change, thugs will continue to have an easy life.’
Stacey Elford,
Barnstaple, Devon
Tel: 07702 472830

Bradpole, Dorset: Maria Sims

2006-11-30T07:55:00.000-08:00

For years Maria Sims has been intimidated by neighbours within her block of flats.
Maria, 38, explains: ‘Almost every day I get abuse from drug addicts. I suffer from panic attacks. When I call the police they say they don’t want to be called out on such matters because there’s nothing they can do. This is why people are reluctant to report crimes.
‘We need to stand together to make the police take notice.’
Maria Sims,
Bradpole, Dorset
Tel: 07837 275676

Hounslow, Greater London: Andrea Porteous

2006-11-30T07:46:00.000-08:00

It was the middle of the night when a thug tried to smash his way into Andrea Porteous’s home and threatened to set his dog on her and her two daughters.
Andrea, 38, contacted Mums’ Army and said: ‘He broke the lock but somehow I managed to keep hold of the door to stop him, then he fled. After that I knew I had to move my children to safety.’
It wasn’t the first time something had happened in the six months Andrea had been living in Hounslow, Greater London.
‘Within a week of moving here, two people were stabbed,’ she explains.
She has moved now and says: 'I don’t know if I’ll ever feel safe. I’m joining Mums’ Army to do whatever I can to help others.’
Andrea Porteous,
Hounslow, Greater London
Tel: 07772 426463
E-mail: andrea_porteous@yahoo.co.uk

Olney, Buckinghamshire: Frances Gutteridge

2006-11-30T07:41:00.000-08:00

When Roger Gutteridge, 63, approached youths causing trouble at the bottom of his drive, he was pelted with cans, bottles and stones.
His wife Frances, contacted Mums’ Army. She says: ‘Yobs use our property as a gathering point to take drugs. My husband was trying to photograph them because the police won’t take action unless we can identify them. Fortunately he wasn’t seriously hurt, but I want to make sure there isn’t a next time.
‘The vandals seem to be streets ahead of the police.’
Frances Gutteridge,
Olney, Buckinghamshire
E-mail: info@logisticscentre.co.uk

Salford, Greater Manchester: Renee Cavanaugh

2006-11-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

Soon after moving into her home grandmother Renee Cavanaugh, 64, saw a gang of local youths vandalising an empty house. She called the police and the yobs launched a hate campaign against her.
Renee says: ‘Almost every night for over two years the kids threw bricks and fired air rifles at my house. They shouted abuse, hurled beer cans at me and left knives and dead birds at my door.
‘When I decided to confront a gang of about 30 kids, one boy repeatedly kicked and punched me in the stomach. Weeks later they surrounded me and threatened to burn my car. When they let me go I was shaking with fear.’
Wracked by stress, Renee then suffered a heart attack and had to stay in hospital for five weeks before returning to her home in Salford.
Then one of the yobs came to her door and told her: ‘We’re going to have you murdered and cut your body up into pieces.’
‘Everything he said was recorded on my CCTV camera,’ says Renee. ‘I showed the tape to the police and gave the council the tapes and diaries I’d kept for the past two years.’
The 15-year-old leader of the gang has been given a two-year antisocial behaviour order and Renee can now finally live in peace.
Renee says: ‘I fought a one-woman battle and now I’m joining Mums’ Army to help stamp out antisocial behaviour full stop. We’ve got to stand together and fight back.’
Renee Cavanaugh,
Salford, Greater Manchester
Tel: 0161 9506496

Stockport, Greater Manchester: Beverley Everett

2006-11-23T09:58:00.000-08:00

While attending a wedding reception at her local community centre, Beverley Everett had no idea that a group of youths were outside breaking into her car.
Beverley, 50, explains: ‘It was still light when the car was stolen. They drove it down the railway tracks and then set it on fire. It seems that youths now have no fear and it’s terrifying.
‘I have six children and four grandchildren, and I've seen how society has got more and more violent. I’m dreading the time when my three youngest children become independent and want to go out.
‘My 21-year-old daughter recently went to a nightclub with her cousin and when he tried to protect her from a local yob, he was attacked and had his nose bitten off. She has also witnessed a young man being kicked in the head and now refuses to go out at night.
‘Violence to this degree is down to a total lack of respect and discipline — yob culture has to be stopped.’
Beverley Everett,
Stockport, Greater Manchester
Tel: 07951 840891

Carlisle, Cumbria: Jenny Boothman

2006-11-23T08:59:00.000-08:00

After a year of torment from a neighbour, Jenny Boothman brought together her community to force the council to take action.
Mum of two Jenny, 52, says: ‘We lived in a nice area until a young mother moved in next door. Teenagers went into her house every night to drink alcohol and play loud music. My garden was treated like a toilet and they left behind bottles and knives.
‘My neighbours and I kept antisocial behaviour diaries but we only got results when we pressured the council. Finally the woman was evicted but only because we stuck together.
‘There are still problems. I don’t want to be forced to move away but my children have already left because they don’t want to raise their families here. Let’s act now before it gets worse.’
Jenny Boothman,
Carlisle, Cumbria
Tel: 07944 023247

Telford, Shropshire: Pamela Ayres

2006-11-21T08:24:00.000-08:00

Pamela Ayres was relieved when her daughter stopped hanging around with a gang of girls causing trouble in their neighbourhood. But she had no idea of the consequences.
Pamela, 55, explains: ‘Two of my grown-up daughters were jumped on by eight of the girls when they went to collect their children from school. They were kicked and punched in front of my grandchildren and have since had to take them out of school. My eldest son, who has learning difficulties, was targeted as he walked home. He was terrified.
‘We moved here from Liverpool for a better life but it’s a living hell because we’re not locals. I’ve been to the police. People tell me I should go back to where I’m from. There's no support for us so I called the Mums’ Army Hotline. I don’t know who to turn to. How far does it have to go before we’re moved to safety? We shouldn’t have to live like this.’
Pamela Ayers,
Telford, Shropshire
Tel: 07969 985871

Buckfastleigh, Devon: Nikki Lane

2006-11-21T08:22:00.000-08:00

Armed youths patrol the streets of Nikki Lane’s neighbourhood carrying chains, knives and baseball bats. Their parents and the police are ineffective but she's determined to restore safety in her area.
Nikki, 40, says: ‘The antisocial behaviour is unbelievable. It’s the same group of kids all the time — smashing windows, fighting, drinking and taking drugs on the street. They are terrorising the residents. No one feels safe to go out at night. People are afraid but it’s important for us to speak out or things will only get worse.’
Nikki Lane,
Buckfastleigh, Devon
Tel: 07976 321685

Hull, East Yorkshire: Pam Storey

2006-11-21T08:21:00.000-08:00

After four years of harassment Pam Storey found peace when her unruly neighbours were rehoused by the council.
Mother of four, Pam, 43, says: ‘It’s been a battle. Glass jars were thrown into our garden, dog excrement was hurled at our house and we were constantly threatened. The police took no action and I was lucky abusers asked to be moved — otherwise they'd still be making our lives hell.
‘Even though the problems have gone from my doorstep, I’m joining Mums’ Army because I’m determined to do everything I can to better this region.’
Pam Storey,
Hull, East Yorkshire
Tel: 07958 587414
E-mail: storey7@storey7.karoo.co.uk

Swanscombe, Kent: Lisa Williams

2006-11-21T08:18:00.000-08:00

A nine-year-old boy broke into a car so he could sit and smoke cannabis with his friends. When he was confronted by the owner he just attacked her with a stream of verbal abuse.
Lisa Williams, 22, witnessed this and was so shocked that she joined Mums’ Army.
She says: ‘As a mother of three, I look at destructive youths and dread to think that my children will turn out the same.
‘I have seen children making people’s lives hell by throwing stones, smashing windows, puncturing car tyres, stealing and hurling abuse — something has to be done.’
Lisa Williams,
Swanscombe, Kent
E-mail: lisawilliams2@btinternet.com

Corby, Northamptonshire: Alison Galloway

2006-11-07T05:25:00.000-08:00

Walking on a quiet path to their weekly St John Ambulance meeting, Alison and her 13-year-old son Tony were surrounded by a gang of yobs.
Tony, who has learning difficulties, was punched in the face and Alison was hit across her back with a stick.
Alison, 41, says: ‘I begged them to leave us alone and threatened to call the police, but they continued to attack us with sticks and stones so I turned my back on them and dialled 999 on my mobile. I turned round just in time to duck as one of them swung a piece of wood at my head. We got to the main road and then they left us alone. We were lucky to get away.
‘The police have been useless. I wanted to press charges but they said they’d have a word with the boys. No action has been taken.
‘We’ve been bullied a lot over the past few years and it’s time to put a stop to it. I’ve read so many stories in Take a Break about how yobs target old and sick people — it’s disgusting. They can’t be allowed to carry on like this.
‘My husband Dave and I have joined Mums’ Army because it’s time that our community worked together to live in safety.’
Alison Galloway,
Corby, Northamptonshire
E-mail: GDavegalloway1@aol.com

Walsall, West Midlands: Chanté Sayers

2006-11-07T05:23:00.000-08:00

When a boy with blood on his face knocked on a door, he was welcomed inside and given help by an 82-year-old man. And his thank you? The boy robbed him.
The man’s granddaughter Chanté Sayers, 30, contacted Mums’ Army. She says: ‘My grandfather is a trusting man. When the boy said he’d been beaten up, he made him a drink and called the police. While he was on the phone the boy stole my grandfather’s wallet and my gran’s handbag.’
Her grandfather was targeted again as he played with Chanté’s three-year-old niece.
Chanté explains: ‘They were riding on his mobility scooter when a youth bombarded them with water bombs. They were knocked to the floor and my grandfather’s glasses and hearing aid were broken. Thankfully other children came to help, but the youth got away with it.
‘Things are getting worse. The last two times my fiancé went into the town centre he witnessed two stabbings and my brother-in-law was held at knifepoint for his mobile phone.
‘I blame lenient penalties. The Government has to listen to us.’
Chanté Sayers,
Walsall, West Midlands
E-mail: chante.sayers@hotmail.com

Blackburn, Lancashire: Amanda Gallager

2006-11-07T05:22:00.000-08:00

Following many years of bullying from antisocial neighbours, Amanda Gallagher, 28, contacted Mums’ Army because she can take no more.
She says: ‘My nine-year-old daughter has been attacked. Our family is woken up in the middle of the night by drunk and abusive neighbours who threaten to burn our house down.
‘I've been filling out police antisocial behaviour forms for three years, but I am the only one speaking out because other people here are too scared.
‘I’m joining Mums’ Army in the hope that I can encourage others to combat what’s happening.’
Amanda Gallagher,
Blackburn, Lancashire
E-mail: blackburnlass28@yahoo.co.uk

York, North Yorkshire: Layla Creffield

2006-11-07T05:20:00.000-08:00

Moving into their first home in what they thought was a nice area, Layla Creffield and her fiance soon saw their new community was full of crime.
Layla, 23, says: ‘Within days we found out the owner of a local shop had been beaten with a pickaxe handle in front of his son. We then saw a young boy throw a rock through the window of a neighbour with learning difficulties.
‘Our car and garden shed are constantly broken into. All the incidents have been reported to the police, but we have only been visited by an officer once!
‘We are so sick of having to pay to get things fixed and replaced. I want to see the police take action.’
Layla Creffield,
York, North Yorkshire
E-mail: stationite09@hotmail.co.uk

Renfrew, Scotland: Rhondda Morris

2006-10-31T09:58:00.000-08:00

Rhondda Morris is grateful her 18-year-old son Joseph didn’t go out to meet his best friend Andrew McInnes one night in summer. By staying home, he avoided a street fight — which ended in Andrew being fatally stabbed in the heart.
Rhondda, 40, says: ‘I’ve known Andrew since he was a baby and it’s hard to accept that we won’t see him again. There are fights between gangs here all the time.
‘My eight-year-old son and I saw a man being killed outside our door by a youth who was full of drink and drugs. I never want to witness something like that again and I don’t want my children subjected to this terrible violence.
‘I’ve joined Mums’ Army because I am terrified something will happen to my sons. The fights have to be stopped before someone else dies.'
Rhondda Morris,
Renfrew, Scotland
E-mail: secret_mist_2004@yahoo.co.uk

Ilminster, Somerset: Nicci Court

2006-10-31T09:54:00.000-08:00

When a group of boys smashed a bottle in front of Nicci Court and her two young children in a local park, she was scared to confront the yobs.
Nicci, 26, says: ‘Their language was awful and I didn’t want my children to witness me being verbally abused.
‘Antisocial behaviour and drugs are slowly creeping in here. Used needles have been found in the nature reserve and I am afraid for my children as they start to grow up.
‘It’s hard to tackle these problems on your own and that’s why I’ve joined Mums’ Army. I hope to bring the community together and to work with the council and police to make our area a better place to live.’
Nicci Court,
Ilminster, Somerset
Tel: 07915 312711

Faversham, Kent: Tracy Ashworth

2006-10-31T09:44:00.000-08:00

When Tracy Ashworth turned to the police for protection against the violent drug dealers ravaging her neighbourhood, it made not a jot of difference. So she joined Mums’ Army.
And how did the police respond?
An officer told her: ‘That is most inadvisable. Do not do it. It’s too dangerous.’
The officer also said: ‘Do not go out after dark and stay away from your windows.’
Mother of two, Tracy, 34, says: ‘I was astonished when the police told me not to join Mums’ Army. I am rejecting their advice. It’s time someone stood up and did something. We cannot just live in abject fear.
‘In the past year the problems in this area have spiralled out of control. Almost every day my family are threatened and abused by troublemakers who are known by the police but allowed to get away with it.
‘My eight-year-old daughter has been verbally abused and spat at in our own garden, and my 14-year-old daughter was attacked in the local park. I was spat on at our front door and assaulted inside my house. We are not safe anywhere.
‘The police tell me to document antisocial behaviour — I have pages and pages of it. But instead of them taking action, they tell us not to go out after dark. It seems that even the authorities are scared to come here — it’s nicknamed Beirut.
‘It feels that I'll only get some reaction from the police if these thugs smash my house up or put me in hospital.
‘I joined Mums’ Army because I refuse to live like this any more. I can’t get any support from the authorities so we have no choice but to stand together and force them to take action.’
Tracy Ashworth,
Faversham, Kent
Tel: 07852 364915

Gillingham, Kent: Donna Still

2006-10-31T09:43:00.000-08:00

Mums' Army is the inspiration behind TV’s latest hit

Among all our other achievements, we have now inspired TV’s latest hit series, The Amazing Mrs Pritchard. It's the story of an ordinary family woman who trounces the politicians and takes power as Prime Minister.
The character, played by Jane Horrocks, is typical of so many of our Mums’ Army supporters.
The BBC’s Daily Politics show invited one dedicated campaigner, Donna Still, of Gillingham, Kent, to take part in their programme, and reporter Giles Dilnot told viewers: ‘If you think politics is the preserve of those who were destined from their prams to be professional politicians, you may find this story inspiring.
‘Back in January, we talked to Donna Still, of Mums’ Army. It’s reminiscent of The Amazing Mrs Pritchard — but it’s real life.’
Donna explained how hard she's campaigning for her local neighbourhood and that she's determined to get on the council.
She said: ‘The trouble with the current politicians is that they lead such a privileged life and I don’t think they’re on the same level as normal people.’
That's the view of thousands of our supporters. Mums’ Army has hundreds of Mrs Pritchards. We hope to make an impact at the 2007 local elections.

Donna Still,
Gillingham, Kent
E-mail: mumsarmymedway@yahoo.co.uk

Penclawdd, Swansea: Sandy Shepheard

2006-10-31T09:35:00.000-08:00

They’ve thrown acid in her face, destroyed her specially adapted car and continue to abuse her for being disabled. But the police tell single mum Sandy, paralysed in her right leg, to ignore the yobs. After five years of this Sandy, 49, has had enough.
'She says: ‘When I read about Take a Break’s Mums’ Army I called the Hotline straight away.
‘I have a mentally handicapped daughter who is constantly mocked and my son has been physically attacked. I keep going to the police but nothing is done. I can’t understand why they’re not helping.
‘My children are prisoners in their own home because of these of yobs. I feel sorry for young people who have nothing to occupy them, but it’s not fair that they bully others. We need the Government to provide more facilities to get them off the streets - and to make their parents accountable for their actions.
‘I hope and pray that Mums’ Army can make a difference.’
Sandy Shepheard,
Penclawdd, Swansea
Tel: 07999 841005

Redditch, Worcestershire: Kate Brookes

2006-10-31T09:33:00.000-08:00

Six weeks ago we told how Paul Brookes, who is blind, and his guide dog Carlo were being taunted by yobs. Sadly, this sickening abuse continues.
Paul’s wife Kate, of Redditch, Worcestershire, contacted Mums’ Army to say: ‘After your report Paul felt strong enough to visit the shops. When he came home he was covered in yellow powder paint, although unaware of it. A policeman came to see us but what could he do? Paul was cross more than anything.
'Please keep up the campaign. I'm terrified as to what could happen one day.’

Hull, East Yorkshire: Donna Mingham

2006-10-17T05:02:00.000-07:00

When a local youth was found dead with head injuries, Donna Mingham contacted Mum’s Army saying she knew it was time to take a stand.
Mother of three, Donna, 35, of the Ings Road Estate, Hull, contacted Mums’ Army and said: ‘Over the three years that I’ve lived here the situation has got worse. The police have provided extra patrols but it's still terrible and I’m not going to sit back and put up with it.
‘Last year my eight-year-old daughter was threatened with a knife and then told that she would be burnt alive in a shed. She is still having nightmares. And the police claimed there was nothing they could do without proof.
There is drinking and fighting almost every night and gangs vandalise our property, throw beer cans at us and shout abuse. We can’t go out and we can’t sleep. People here have had enough and are being forced to move away. There are more houses empty and boarded up than there are lived in.
‘I’ve joined Mums’ Army because I’m hoping that if people stand up to these thugs, at last something will be done about this problem.’
Donna Mingham,
Hull, East Yorkshire
E-mail: ashab1@ashab1.karoo.co.uk

Mottingham, Greater London: Shennet Debbey

2006-10-17T04:59:00.000-07:00

After both her sons were attacked by yobs, Shennet Debbey was so scared she phoned our Hotline in tears.
Shennet, of Mottingham, Greater London, says: ‘My 24-year-old son was hit with a bottle and my 15-year-old was attacked by the same gang.
‘I’m not saying my sons are angels but because there is nothing here for young people to do, they’re forced to hang around the local shops, which is where the trouble happens.
‘There is a lovely community here and there are some good kids who are being tarred with the same brush as the yobs. They are bored and they need more opportunities.
‘I’m a single mum and I work full time, but I want to do something. I'm contacting Mums’ Army because I refuse to live in fear any longer.
‘I hope I’ll be able to unite mothers and form a parenting support group so we can improve our neighbourhood and help our children.’
Shennet Debbey,
Mottingham, Greater London
E-mail: chenet836@btinternet.com

Holywell, Flintshire: Tracy Stephens

2006-10-17T04:50:00.000-07:00

After Tracy Stephens’s husband left her and their six children, local yobs started to set upon them.
Tracy, 44, of Holywell, Flintshire, contacted Mums’ Army and said: ‘My garden was wrecked, I was subjected to abuse and it wasn’t safe for my children to leave the house.
‘We fled to a refuge and then we were housed in another town for a fresh start. But from day one we suffered from behaviour worse than that which we’d escaped. Gangs of up to 20 yobs threw stones at the windows and doors every day. It went on for three years. We had no choice but to move again when my son and I were threatened by teenage street gangsters. It was terrifying.
‘We suffered for eight years and had to move four times before we finally found peace. Now I want to join Mums’ Army to put all that I have experienced to good use.’
Tracy Stephens,
Holywell, Flintshire
Tel: 07731 637822

Barlanark, Glasgow: Liz Wilkie

2006-10-17T02:40:00.000-07:00

Yobs loiter outside Liz Wilkie’s house, vandalising and stealing her property - and she feels powerless to stop it.
A mother of four, Liz, 38, says: ‘I’m sick of this behaviour and want to see the law changed. My husband has had to clean excrement and urine off our back door and six-year-old boys have smashed up our car.
‘My neighbours and I regularly have to call the police and the fire brigade because kids start fires on our propery, setting our bins and trees alight. The firemen have to put out the fires while kids jeer them — where are the police? They tell us our problems are not a priority and because of this attitude the kids know they can get away with anything. We back Mums’ Army. Things must change.’
Liz Wilkie,
Barlanark, Glasgow
E-mail: douglizwilkie@yahoo.co.uk

Brackley, Northants: Anita Cottle

2006-09-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

After Anita Cottle's family moved, they became victimised because of their race.
Mum of three Anita, 40, says: ‘My 20-year-old daughter Jasmine was attacked and they spat in her face as my two other children were forced to watch. She is traumatised — we all are.
‘Since arriving here three years ago, my kids have been verbally abused because they are of Asian origin. We were all born in the UK. I can't believe what we've been subjected to.
‘Although we're now being accepted in the community we never expected anything this bad to happen. Jasmine’s attack has shocked everyone.
‘People are aware of antisocial incidents here but they tend to ignore them. And now that we’re speaking out they're offering support and agreeing something has to be done. I've joined Mums’ Army in order that we can increase unity, awareness and education.’
Anita Cottle,
Brackley, Northants
E-mail: martincottle@btinternet.com

Anita's daughter Jasmine after her attack

Alloa, Clackmannanshire: Margaret Penman

2006-09-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

An ASBO (anti-social behaviour order) has been given to the whole of Margaret Penman’s neighbouring village of Sauchie. She says it is like living in the middle of gang warfare.
Margaret, 32, of Alloa, Clackmannanshire, explains: ‘It’s like a mini-Beirut. Day after day police cars, riot vans, ambulances and fire engines roar past my flat. Junkies live here and threaten my family.
‘The alleyway leading to my son’s school is used every night for fights between the gangs. I have seen kids of eight looking for trouble with bricks, pickaxes, iron bars and baseball bats with six-inch nails sticking out.
‘People are getting seriously hurt. The police and the council promise to make changes but nothing is done. I desperately hope that Mums’ Army can help change things.’
Margaret Penman,
Alloa, Clackmannanshire
Tel: 07876 381299
E-mail: tooweetypie@hotmail.com

Gipton, Leeds: Sarah Edwards

2006-09-18T09:59:00.000-07:00

Sarah Edwards is frustrated that her neighbourhood is notoriously bad and yet nothing is done to make it better. Sarah, 31, says: ‘Youths congregate near the local shops and my neighbours and I get hurled with abuse every time we walk past them.
‘I’ve been in this area for less than a year and it's sheer hell. I have two children aged five and three, and I daren’t let them play in the garden. These thugs run riot as everybody seems resigned to the fact that they can’t stop them. It’s ridiculous. By letting things ride, it’s just going to get worse.
‘I want to live in a community where people are not afraid of retaliation. My husband and I are both on sleeping tablets. It will be difficult, but I’m joining Mums’ Army because I won’t let the yobs win.’
Sarah Edwards,
Gipton, Leeds
Tel: 07888 734392
E-mail: s.edwards77@ntlworld.com

Middlesbrough, North Yorks: Marilyn Louca

2006-09-18T09:56:00.000-07:00

Yobs have targeted a husband and son who are both disabled and it is tearing Marilyn Louca’s family apart.
Marilyn, 47, says: ‘My husband and son are always being verbally abused. It’s a living nightmare.
‘My six-year-old child can’t play out and my older children don’t want to be in their own home — they’re literally being driven away from me. If there was anywhere else I could go, I would. I’ve joined Mums’ Army so I can offer support to others who are going through the same thing. The Government must be pressured to do something to help us.’
Marilyn Louca,
Middlesbrough, North Yorks
Tel: 07981 365197

Motherwell, North Lanarkshire: Mary Vaughan

2006-09-18T09:54:00.000-07:00

When her parents died, Mary Vaughan took over the care of her 35-year-old brother Tony who has Down’s syndrome. It wasn’t long before yobs saw a target.
Mary, 43, says: ‘Whenever Tony went out, a group of teenage boys would call him names and slap him. Once they threw buckets of water at him and another time they beat him with roofing felt.
‘Tony had always been brought up to be independent and the yobs took that away from him. I want to make sure my brother enjoys every minute of his life.
‘I called the police but the boys denied everything. When I went to speak to the father of the ringleader, he punched me in the head. I have epilepsy and could take no more.
‘I contacted the council’s antisocial task force. They mediated between our families and arranged a meeting. The family were told that if their behaviour didn’t stop they would be evicted from their home. That’s when everything changed. Since then Tony has been treated with respect and kindness, and he has his independence back. I'm glad to say he's happy again.'
Now Mary wants to help others. She says: ‘I have joined Mums’ Army because I want to stop this happening to other families. People can make a change to their lives - just like we have. You should not suffer in silence.’
Mary Vaughan,
Motherwell, North Lanarkshire
Tel: 07988 715503
E-mail: mary_scotland@hotmail.com

Mary's brother Tony

Northampton: Kay Godier

2006-09-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

After reading a letter in Take a Break from the teenage sister of a boy with cerebral palsy who was being bullied by yobs, Kay Godier called us straightaway to offer support. It was a stark reminder of her own experience.
Kay, 48, says: ‘My five-year-old son Harry has special needs and we were victimised by a family who’d already made arson attacks on a neighbour with a child who had cerebral palsy.
‘The fire brigade gave us fire extinguishers to put by the front door every night. We were verbally abused and dirty knickers were hung outside our home. Then my car was vandalised, leaving me with no way to get Harry to hospital appointments.
‘After a year I went to the police and discovered that there was a new law to protect the disabled and the elderly. The council was legally forced to take action and evict the family who was causing us misery.
‘Over the years I have seen society go down the drain. The culture that I grew up in has gone. I have six children and two granddaughters, and I will do anything to protect them.
‘You can make a difference if you fight back. Don’t ever give up. We all have a right to a normal life free from all this lawlessness.’
Kay Godier,
Northampton
E-mail: chattylass456@msn.com

Sittingbourne, Kent: Joanne Witherden

2006-09-18T09:49:00.000-07:00

Joanne Witherden is 17 and keen to fight for Mums’ Army. She says: ‘My boyfriend was attacked without reason by a drunken yob looking for trouble. He has been targeted many times.
We’re scared of groups of youths and we have to avoid walking past them. We go in the car to the local shop which is only 100 yards away.
‘Yobs have taken control of peoples lives and it’s not fair that many of us are worried and intimidated. They are bullies and they get off lightly for doing horrible things.
‘I have joined Mums’ Army because I want something done.’
Joanne Witherden,
Sittingbourne, Kent
Tel: 07783 608961
E-mail: blackcandy5@msn.com

Southway, Plymouth: Kat Osbourne

2006-09-18T09:48:00.000-07:00

Kat Osbourne was devastated when her cat Lulu died after being attacked by local yobs. Kat, 35, says: ‘They kicked Lulu breaking her ribs and tearing the ligament in her back leg and they also covered her in glue. She needed an operation, but at 13 she was too frail and died at the vets. Lulu never had a day’s illness yet the last few weeks of her life were spent in pain inside a cage.
‘Other people in my neighbourhood have had their cats shot by yobs with pellet guns. The kids round here can do what they want and no-one seems to care. It’s sad that they aren’t brought up to protect those weaker than themselves, including animals.
‘My kids are too scared to go out and play so they are inside the house all the time. I read about Mums’ Army every week and I want things to change. We need the government to act and I’ll do whatever I can to change our society.’
Kat Osbourne,
Southway, Plymouth
E-mail: sme1@blueyonder.co.uk

Lulu died after being attacked by yobs