POLICE are taking four Haslingden teenagers to court because they refused to sign anti-social behaviour contracts.

The four have been responsible for acts of assault, criminal damage, burglary and disorderly conduct and police wrote to their parents to ask them to discuss their child's behaviour.

Sgt Colin Hudson said: "Prior to taking out an order we must undertake mediation with the offender with a view to them changing for the better.

"Unfortunately, three of the families made no contact whatsoever and when contacted the parents made it clear they would not co-operate with the procedure.

"The one who did attend refused to sign a contract despite being urged to do so by his mother and solicitor.

"Residents can rest assured that we are doing our utmost to prevent the activities of a minority intent on causing problems."

He said the evidence was being forwarded to the police legal department and he was hoping for an early court date to obtain Anti-Social Behaviour Orders.

Sgt Hudson said: "The individuals will then have to be constantly aware that if they breach the orders we will be one step behind them and well arrest and put them straight before the courts.

"Anyone who intends pursuing a course of conduct that is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to others should also be aware that we will not hesitate to target others for anti-social behaviour orders should we feel it necessary."

There is no provision for bail and once a breach has been committed the individual must go before the next court.

Normally the identity of a young person under 17 cannot be revealed, but the law is different regarding anti-social behaviour contracts and the identity can be revealed if the court deems it necessary.