A TEAM is being set up to try to solve the problem of under-12s running riot in Tyldesley and Atherton.

In recent months, many residents have witnessed stones being thrown at buses and railway lines, as well as abuse directed at old people, graffiti and vandalism.

Many of the culprits responsible are under 12, meaning they are too young to come under the eye of the youth service.

Atherton and Hindsford Risk Management Group -- a partnership of local agencies, councillors and residents -- has launched a smaller group, led by local man Clive Robinson, to assess the problem.

The team aims to liaise with parents, teachers and residents to come up with ideas for dealing with long-standing concerns for the safety of unsupervised children and the growing social menace of unruly youngsters.

Campaigners recognise problems are frequently caused by lack of parental supervision, which puts the youngsters at risk as much as the community.

And they are concerned that in many cases the authorities have limited powers to act because of the children's ages.

Now they want to enlist the support of the public in coming up with solutions to some of the problems. Better parenting skills and improved support for parents are also on the agenda.

Co-ordinator Mr Robinson, who runs the Signpost Advisory Service in Tyldesley, said: "We all recognise there are problems with unsupervised children.

"The team, with the support of Wigan Council's Community Safety Team, hopes to find solutions based on ideas and input from local people."

Atherton and Tyldesley people with ideas for action can contact Mr Robinson on 01942 799339 or John Black, Wigan Council's Community Risk Management officer on 01942 827878.