Officers from the Farnborough Safer Neighbourhoods Team have joined forces with Sentinel Housing Association to take action against a family in the area. PC Rob Dunster and PCSO Annette Russ, who cover Cove and Southwood beat, have been working with Craig Lath from the housing association to deal with the Wood Lane family who were causing problems in the area, and mainly in the town centre.

Following complaints from businesses and residents about a family in the area, as well as court proceedings, action was taken under section 17 of the Crime and Disorder Act 2002. This act allows the police and other relevant agencies to share information to deal with any community related issues, including anti-social behaviour.

PC Rob Dunster said: “Although most of the problems were being caused by the two sons, one aged 15 and the other 18, the family have been evicted from their home. “As tenants, the parents are responsible not only for their actions, but also those of their sons, whether at the address or not. “The family caused an unacceptable drain on police resources and this action by us and the housing association hopefully shows residents that we do listen to their concerns and will take positive action against any families that commit this type of unacceptable behaviour.”

PCSO Annette Russ added: “Since the eviction, we have been told by residents while out on patrol that the area is a quieter and better place to live. “Everyone has their part to play in making the area a more pleasant place and we hope this action encourages other residents to feel confident in contacting us if they have any problems in their area.”

Craig Lath, from Sentinel Housing Association, said: “Sentinel takes anti-social behaviour very seriously and works with the police and other agencies to deal with problem families. “In this case the family caused problems for their neighbours and by working together we have managed to evict this family and ensure the area is once again a pleasant and safe place for all to live in.”

For more information about the work being done by the Safer Neighbourhoods Team, visit the local policing pages of Hampshire Constabulary at www.hampshire.police.uk