Fearful residents in Hedge End have told of the attempted mugging of a lone woman, schoolchildren having their phones stolen and intimidating groups of teenagers.

People on Barfoot Road said the area has become riddled with anti-social behaviour due to groups of teenagers meeting in a small pathway leading to Charterhouse Way.

Christmas lights being torn down, Halloween pumpkins been smashed in the street and regular ‘boisterous’ and ‘intimidating behaviour’ have all been reported.

Barfoot Road resident of five years, Eric Joy, said he and his family had considered moving as a result of the groups of teens.

Barfoot RoadBarfoot Road (Image: NQ) He said: “The group attempted to steal my partner's electric bike as she came home from work. She was outnumbered 15 to one but didn’t stop and was able to make it through unscathed.

“I also had to walk a young secondary school student to the shop after they attempted to steal his phone as he walked through the cut way. They often pick on younger children.

“They often wear balaclavas. It is very intimidating when we walk through with my kids.

“Hedge End has a good reputation but it's starting to go hill with incidents like this.”

Eric said that he was ‘let down’ that the police had not done more to deter the groups from returning to the area.

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Another resident, who wanted to remain unnamed, added: “They smoke cannabis and are generally loud and intimidating. We have seen neighbour’s cars being damaged.

“The pathway has also become covered in litter and I do not feel comfortable walking that way when it’s dark.

“I understand the funding challenges the police face, but I think they could do more to stop the groups spoiling the area for residents.”

Litter in the path between the two roadsLitter in the path between the two roads (Image: NQ) Hampshire Constabulary has said it is aware of the antisocial behaviour and criminality and will continue to patrol the area.

Hedge End Inspector Steve Goodall said: “Officers will be continuing to carry out proactive patrols in the area concerned - so please look out for them.

“These patrols will continue in the coming weeks, as will our investigations into the reports we’ve so far received - please always report incidents to us.

“As well as the continued presence within the communities on the beat, our officers also hold regular beat surgeries.”