COMMUNITIES in Three Rivers are being urged to help protect their area by reporting any incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour.

In particular, Three Rivers District Council and Hertfordshire police are calling for information on a gang of youths who have been gathering in Croxley Green, Chorleywood and Mill End, causing increasing problems for local residents.

They have reason to believe these young people were also involved in a vicious attack in Rickmansworth Park last October.

Councillor Roger Seabourne, community safety portfolio holder, said: "Three Rivers is one of the safest districts in one of the safest counties in Britain, and we are working in partnership with Hertfordshire police to ensure that it stays that way.

"We are taking this step to ensure that a small number of individuals do not affect the majority of the community. We are encouraging anyone who may have information to get in touch."

Recent incidents of anti-social behaviour in these areas have included windows being smashed at Malvern Way Infant and Nursery School, Croxley Green, a car broken into and set on fire in Dickinson Avenue, Croxley Green, numerous acts of vandalism at bus shelters and graffiti on shop walls.

PC Mick Aylward of Hertfordshire police said: "We would stress that anyone who calls with information will do so in complete confidence and they do not have to give their name. We want everyone in Three Rivers to feel safe and by coming forward, residents can help us to take action against anti-social behaviour."

To report a crime, residents can telephone PC Mick Aylward on 01923 472 114, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and/or if it relates to nuisance youths, telephone Evelyn McWilliam, anti-social behaviour officer at Three Rivers District Council, on 01923 727354.