RESIDENTS in a Pendle village say youngsters are downing vodka, smoking cannabis and urinating on their properties - all before lunchtime.

The householders, in Gisburn Road, Barrowford, said groups of teenagers have congregated in Grey Street, behind their homes, for many years.

They said they believed the youngsters, who often have rucksacks with them, are students at the nearby Nelson and Colne College.

Bosses from the college said they were ‘aware’ of residents’ concerns, but added that there was ‘no evidence’ to say those involved were students.

Police said they had ‘no knowledge’ of any recent incidents and vowed to investigate the claims if a complaint is made.

One resident, of Gisburn Road, who asked not to be named, said the youths gather around the wall and bins outside his back door, drinking, smoking and littering.

He added: “There have been occasions when a group of our or five lads are there. I’ve observed them drink half a litre of vodka between two in 10 minutes, mixing it with pop to dilute it.

“Sometimes I see piles of vomit and they use the area as a toilet as well.”

Another resident, in Gisburn Road, added: “I presume it’s college students drinking things like vodka and WKD and smoking spliffs and leaving rubbish.”

Residents said they have contacted the college on a number of occasions with their concerns.

Lyn Surgeon, headteacher at Nelson and Colne College, said: “We are aware of some isolated concerns within the local area which have been reported by a resident.

"We have, however, no evidence that our students are included and would respond appropriately if this were the case.

“The behaviour of our students is frequently praised by visitors to the College as is the work that they do within the community.

“All students are regularly reminded of their responsibilities as young citizens and would welcome the opportunity to work with the community on this issue.”

Sgt Keith Beckley, of Nelson Police, added: “We have in the past had concerns raised about youths in that area, but we addressed them at the end of last year and a number of people were spoken to.

"One person was issued with a caution for possession of cannabis a quantity of alcohol was seized.”