Staff at a Braintree supermarket, terrorised by teenage troublemakers, are increasing their security budget by 120 per cent to employ two guards.

Tesco in Market Square will be spending £1200 per month to protect staff and customers from groups of youths congregating outside the store.

Staff and customers have been plagued by youths throwing paint on cars,slashing tyres as well as treating people to verbal and physical abuse.

Last year a car parking attendant had a firework thrown into his kiosk, and fireworks have been thrown into the store.

The store is set to recruit the guards in the next three weeks as an ongoing presence on the store's two entrances to prevent thefts, underage sales and harassment of staff and customers.

The announcement to increase security comes after a 16-year-old girl was assaulted by a group of 20-30 girls near the store in Market Square last Wednesday.

Craig Fryer, Manager of Tesco Market Square, said: "In 14 months crime has become an issue, it was seen as a low risk store, but has now moved to being a high risk store.

"We are increasing our budget for next year to prevent crime and to give customers peace of mind."

Local traders have also complained about youths causing trouble and lack of police presence in the area.

P.C. Steve Turner said police are aware of youths gathering in the town centre and said they regularly speak to them.

He added that members of the public should contact police if they see youths committing offences giving cause for concern.

Published Friday, February 7, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette