Understand
Blakelaw parents scared to take kids to football due to anti-social behaviour
Overview
Parents are reportedly afraid to take their children to football training sessions at Blakelaw FC in Newcastle due to ongoing anti-social behaviour by youths, including fireworks thrown at players, fires set in car parks, and vehicles being pelted with stones and eggs. The issues have also affected local services, with Stagecoach buses avoiding the area in evenings and a fire engine targeted. Local councillors have called for an emergency meeting, while police and Newcastle City Council report taking action including patrols, CCTV installation, and identifying 20 young people in connection with the incidents.
Key points
- Blakelaw FC chairman Gavin Campbell said parents are scared to bring children to football because cars are hit with stones and eggs, and fireworks have been aimed at players.
- Anti-social behaviour has also included fires being set in the car park and vandalism of the club's containers.
- Stagecoach bus services have avoided the area in the evenings, and a fire engine was taken out of service after items were thrown at it.
- Reform UK councillors called for an emergency full council meeting to address recurring anti-social behaviour.
- Northumbria Police stated they have identified 20 young people in connection with the trouble, with some arrested and on bail.
- Newcastle City Council highlighted that it has responded by holding meetings, conducting patrols, and installing CCTV.