A GANG of young yobs has been criticised for putting motorists' lives at risk by throwing missiles at moving cars.

Six youths were spotted hurling what it is believed were balls at passing cars in Halstead Road, Kirby Cross.

The youngsters, who were all aged between 12 and 14, were seen throwing the objects at a number of vehicles.

Police are now warning youngsters not to take part in the dangerous act, and are calling on residents to report any such incidents.

A police spokesman said: "A group of six youths were seen hiding in an alleyway close to the road and every time a vehicle drove past they jumped out and threw a tennis ball-sized ball at the vehicles' windscreens.

"This is a very dangerous thing to do and it goes without saying that it could not only distract the driver, causing them to crash, but could even smash the windscreen causing further injuries.

"This is irresponsible behaviour by these youngsters and such behaviour could put motorists' lives at risk.

"The seriousness of this cannot be understated and if anyone has seen these youngsters doing this or anyone else throwing objects at cars they are asked to report it to the police."