A CRACKDOWN has been launched on anti-social behaviour in Aveley. Following on from a similar campaign in Stifford Clays, Police Community Support Officers have set their sights on the town to reduce crime and fear of crime.

The main problems raised by residents include underage drinking, criminal damage and large groups congregating outside the recreation ground and local shops.

A number of community support officers will be concentrating on Aveley by patrolling on foot and bikes, at peak problem times. They will also be speaking to parents of trouble makers, in the hope to make them aware of where there child is and the consequences of their actions.

Schools will be visited and pupils spoken to about available local hobbies and clubs. Plans will also be put to forward to introduce more activities for youngsters in the area.

Stop checks will also be carried out and alcohol and cigarettes will be confiscated.

Community officer Ben Olive said: "We chose Aveley due to the volume of reported problems. This action plan seems to be working well and will continue for the next few weeks. Certain areas, like the High Street is often reported to us as being one of the main problem. We are doing all we can to reduce the problems in Aveley, our aim is to instill a peace of mind back into residents and reduce their fear of crime.'

The PCSO's have recently moved on from their good work in Cramavill Street, Stifford Clays. While they were there anti social behaviour saw a 50 per cent reduction and they received lots of positive feedback from local residents.