Some families could be ejected from the trouble-torn Saxton Road estate in Abingdon after more flare-ups.

Families have complained of repeated hooliganism from youngsters. Action against the culprits is being considered by the Vale Housing Association and Vale of White Horse District Council.

Officers have declined to say what form it could take but new anti-social behaviour legislation allows councils to seek exclusion orders, which could force persistent troublemakers out of the area.

Residents, who say they are too frightened to be named, claim that after a relatively quiet spell, tension on the estate is growing again.

One said: "Teenagers are driving us crazy with their vile language, bullying and intimidation."

Another said: "We had dreadful trouble here a month ago with teenagers going on the rampage and fighting in the streets.

"The police stepped up patrols for a while. We haven't got gangs, just groups of youngsters bored and looking for trouble."

Her neighbour said: "It is terrible, in this day and age, that you feel scared stiff of people in your street. I know it's a cowardly way out, but I simply dare not give my name." Another resident said: "Very often it's their mothers who are worst. Their language is vile and their behaviour appalling - is it any wonder the kids are wild in the streets? They have lousy examples of how to be decent members of society."

The residents said it was unfair that the whole street should be intimidated by two or three families and demanded immediate action.

An Abingdon police spokesman said they were aware of the disturbances but added: "We really do need names and proper evidence so that we can act, otherwise we are virtually helpless."

David Randall, housing manager of the Vale Housing Association, which owns most of the Saxton Road houses, said: "We are very concerned that our tenants should be allowed to enjoy their homes in peace.

"We will take necessary action whenever we can."