Social network used to organise Crossgar trouble

Social network used to organise Crossgar trouble

6 June 2012

TEENAGERS in Crossgar pelted cars and homes in the village with missiles during a disturbance last week.

A crowd of up to 30 youths who gathered at the square area on Monday night threw water balloons, flour, eggs and empty cans at neighbouring properties and passing vehicles.

It is understood that some of the people involved had arranged to meet again the following evening after contacting one another via a social network site but were thwarted in their attempts to cause further trouble by police who were on patrol in the area after a tip-off.

Councillor Terry Andrews has expressed concern at what happened last week and the mess left behind by the young people.

He said people in Crossgar are making a big effort to keep the village clean and tidy ahead of the arrival of the Olympic torch tomorrow.

“A lot of work is going into raising the profile of the village, yet we have a bunch of young people doing their utmost to undermine the excellent work of others,” he declared.

Councillor Andrews said he is also aware that an elderly lady who was walking towards the square area on Monday night of last week was “petrified” when she came across the unruly teenagers. He said while no attempt was made to harm the lady, she was nonetheless “very frightened.”

The local councillor said in the aftermath of last week’s trouble, people had to clear eggs and flour from their properties, while part of the square was littered with empty cans, egg packaging and other debris.

He continued: “I can’t understand the rationale for targeting people’s homes and property. Throwing missiles at cars is especially dangerous as this could force drivers to lose control of their vehicles, putting other road users and pedestrians at risk.

“Young people caught up in this kind of trouble should realise that if they are apprehended they could end up with a criminal record which could blight their future lives.”

Councillor Andrews said the young people responsible for the recent trouble had let themselves and their families down.

He added: “Crossgar belongs to all the people who live in it and it’s vital they show respect. Work is continuing to deliver new facilities for its young people and I would appeal to them not to get involved in anti-social behaviour.”