A HOUSING association is fencing in homes for the elderly to protect residents from yobs.

Hyndburn Homes, owned by Hyndburn Council, will put up the fences, as high as 1.8 metres, around a number of Scaitcliffe bungalows in Accrington.

The houses, off Gordon Street and Fife Street, are close to a grass area that attracts youngsters.

Now Hyndburn Homes has been given planning permission to set up the fences.

Police community support officer Wayne Smith said: "We have problems with youths gathering on doorsteps and sheltering from the weather.

"They have also been harassing the residents by knocking on the windows and doors and running through the gardens.

"That resulted in us doing more patrols in the area. Other complaints are of young children playing on the grass to the back of Gordon Avenue. Residents have been complaining as it's sheltered accommodation. A lot of them do go to bed very early."

Residents have welcomed the move. Anthony Ashton, 73, of Gordon Avenue, is on oxygen to help his breathing. He said: "People cut across and they walk across with their dogs. It will be good news for us. I like a bit of quiet."

Edith Dunston, councillor for Spring Hill ward, told a planning meeting: "I am constantly being called out because of juvenile nuisance. The elderly residents have had a troubled time."

Coun Tony Dobson, portfolio holder for housing, said: "The properties are surrounded by large grassed areas, which are naturally attractive to youngsters."

The fences will have concrete posts and will be constructed out of recycled material, varying from 0.9 to 1.8 metres high.

A planning document stated: "This application was submitted by Hyndburn Homes in response to concerns about youths causing problems."