Vandals as young as ten are terrifying pensioners on a council housing estate by running across their roofs.

The youngsters gather by the shops at Ruscote Arcade, Banbury, and run amok in nearby Woodfield, frightening elderly residents.

Mandy Bailey, secretary of the Hardwick, Arden and Ruscote Tenants' Association, said some pensioners were receiving medication because they were so scared.

She added: "There is a small hardcore bunch of kids aged between ten and 13 who are a real nuisance and are frightening the old people to death. They run through the gardens, break the fences and throw things at windows." Banbury MP Tony Baldry met pensioners last weekend and is taking up their plight with the police and Cherwell District Council.

He said: "There is absolutely no justification for elderly people having to put up with this sort of behaviour.

"I know that Thames Valley police have been trying hard but I suspect what is now required is that firm action be taken against those who are ringleaders."

The council is installing security lighting by the shops to help improve matters.

Cllr George Parish (Lab, Hardwick) said: "The police have been working very hard and talking to the youngsters but it has been very difficult. "We are hoping to improve the estate with football pitches and tennis courts which may help the situation by giving these youngsters something to do."

Story date: Saturday 11 December

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.