RECKLESS youngsters have risked their lives by running riot across rooftops in Colchester’s city centre.

The children have repeatedly gained access to the top of shops in Short Wyre Street on Saturdays.

One shopkeeper says her staff have been harassed by those responsible who return to taunt them before running away.

The distressed resident, who opened her shop in the street known for its independent stores in October 2016, says she fears the behaviour is “a big accident waiting to happen”.

She said: “This week is the worst it has ever been with several instances of groups of teenagers jumping on our roof.

Gazette: Risk - a previous rooftop incident in ColchesterRisk - a previous rooftop incident in Colchester

“When spoken to, abuse, rude gestures and downright profanity were given by all involved.

“This is obviously something which happens on Saturdays, with them coming across the town’s rooftops and our shop is near the end of the east run they use.

“Not only is this dangerous for them but we’ve already had to have our roof repaired.

“Where they are jumping down from off our roof there are needles and broken glass, this is a big accident waiting to happen.”

In May, the Gazette reported similar behaviour from a gang of children sighted on top of the British Heart Foundation shop near Castle Park.

The group was visible from the High Street and were observed to have been dropping things from the roof and playing football on the roof of the charity shop.

The police confirmed officers were called and spoke with a person concerned, however no offences were identified at the time.

A statement added: “Town Team Officers have been working with local businesses to highlight the areas of concern regarding roof access and to prevent risk and anti-social behaviour”.

Colchester Council leader David King said he understood the “excitement” of exploring but could not condone it being undertaken in such fashion.

“We want people to take care of themselves properly and not to risk accident or injury or disturb others.

“We hope we can find out who they are and get them to understand the risk they run. It is dangerous.”