A POLICE chief has vowed to help improve the quality of life for residents on a troubled Darwen estate.

Divisional Commander Superintendent Eddie Walsh heard complaints from dozens of people at a meeting of the Blackburn with Darwen Police and Community Forum last night.

They claimed the Anchor Estate in Darwen was being torn apart by teenage yobs in the Anchor back field until the early hours. They took drugs, vandalised gardens and children's play equipment and intimidated anyone who dared to challenge them.

Former nurse Brenda Cloughlin of Anchor Grove made a passionate plea for action to rid the area of drug abuse and juvenile nuisance.

She described taking her six grandchildren to the play area only to be met with vandalism, broken beer bottles and drug equipment.

She said: "I have lived on the Anchor Estate for 32 years and it has always been a lovely community.

"In recent years, six young people in their 20s from the estate have died all because of drugs which are readily available. "This is our future generation and it's not good enough that police are too busy and that people are frightened to put their name forward in case they get singled out."

Mother-of-two Linda McDonald added: "I have been threatened and my children have come home asking for money because older children are charging them to go on the back field.

"Something needs to be done."

Coun Mike Barrett, who represents Earcroft ward for the Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, said he had already held meetings with Inspector Stuart Coates of Darwen police and a community officer.

He added: "There is a real problem that needs to be dealt with and that is now happening.

"I live with it and know what it means to raise your head above the parapet.

" But it is a community issue and people are now starting to act."

Mr Walsh guaranteed he would make the issues raised a priority and arrange a meeting with residents to discuss the way forward.

He said: "It is no good just sending for the police every five minutes. We need to work together to do something longer term.

"I am not offering simple solutions but can guarantee that officers will meet with you so that a proper action plan can be put together."

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