Sheringham parents urged to take responsibility over yobs

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An angry councillor has urged parents to take more responsibility for their children amid growing concerns over anti-social behaviour in Sheringham.

The warning follows reports of large groups of teenagers and young adults gathering on the town’s putting green, with incidents including alcohol use, littering, and disruptive behaviour.

Locals have also reported broken glass on the beach near the lifeboat station, excessive noise and abuse directed at nearby homeowners.

North Norfolk councillor Liz Withington said Norfolk police were increasing patrols in the area.

She added they were regularly engaging with those involved, confiscating alcohol and, where necessary, returning young people home to speak with their parents.

Holly ClementCouncilllor Liz Withington (Image: Holly Clement)

Ms Withington highlighted wider concerns about youth safety, including the risk of county lines drugs exploitation, warning that young people in quieter coastal towns could be particularly vulnerable.

She said: “No one wants to stop young people having fun, but we need to keep them safe and ensure they understand the consequences of their actions.”

rubbish on benchSheringham putting green is attracting yobbish behaviour (Image: Nathan's Gardening Services)

Ms Withington said free activities, including Friday evening sessions at The Reef Leisure Centre, had seen low attendance despite efforts to provide safe alternatives.

She said police are also monitoring vehicle-related anti-social behaviour in the town centre, including loud exhausts, dangerous driving and repeated cruising.

Members of the public are being encouraged to submit footage and number plates to assist the police operation.

rubbish on benchLitter on the Sheringham putting green (Image: Nathan's Gardening Services)

Ms Withington warned that Section 59 notices, a formal warning, could lead to vehicle seizures.

“For those young drivers who think a section 59 notice is a joke or a badge of honour I'm sure the two drivers who had their motorbike and car confiscated and crushed last year don't think that now.

“Unlawful exhausts, deliberately backfiring, loud music blasting at night, repeated town centre laps, roaring engines all come under Section 59.

“Not only do you make town centres unsafe but many people in the centre and beyond and in particular families with children are disturbed.

“It is not a good look for our tourism-focused town either.”

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