Residents 'afraid to leave their home as crime reaches boiling point

People living in Bransgore and Thorney Hill, in the New Forest, say they “cannot live like this” after a spate of crimes. 

Incidents allegedly include slingshots being used to smash windows, properties being set alight and criminal damage to vehicles. 

One person, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “This has been going on now for nearly two years now. 

Westbury Close, Bransgore, where incidents have taken place (Image: Google Maps)

“It has resulted in residents having their windows and cars smashed, their children afraid to go outside and can’t even walk at night because they’re frightened to be shot."

Another person added: “This is affecting the whole village and it is getting out of hand.  

“It's ridiculous and we cannot live like this.”  

Read more: Dispersal orders deployed in Bransgore and Thorney Hill following ASB

During the weekend, four incidents were reported to Hampshire Constabulary.

One of windows being damaged by a lead ball at an address in Westbury Close and three reports of similar criminal damage incidents at addresses on Whitelands, off Burley Road. 

A spokeswoman said all incidents are being investigated thoroughly. 

Whitelands, Thorney Hill (Image: Google Maps)

Bransgore Parish Council’s spokeswoman said a beat surgery will be held on Wednesday, March 8, for residents to raise their concerns. 

She added: “The parish council is aware of the incidents that have taken place recently and equally aware of the concerns of residents and we are giving our full support to the police in dealing with this matter and are keeping in touch with them as it progresses.” 

Read more: Catapult fired during disorder in and around Bransgore Co-op

A spokeswoman for the New Forest District Council said: “We are actively working with the police on these issues, who as the lead agency are carrying out the initial criminal investigation.” 

Hampshire Constabulary on Monday, March 6, issued a dispersal order for the two villages, meaning officers have the power to order a person to leave the area with no return within the specified time period.

A dispersal order is in place in the two villages (Image: Hampshire Constabulary/Google Maps)

Inspector Darren Ord, of Hampshire Constabulary, said: “We are aware that there is a great deal of local concern following these incidents, and we want to assure our communities that we will be robust and pro-active in dealing with these issues. 

“We know it is only a small number of people involved in this behaviour, but even so the impacts are far reaching and have a negative impact on the lives of local residents. 

“Our officers will be conducting high-visibility patrols for reassurance as well as disruption. If you have witnessed or been affected by this behaviour please continue to report it to us so we can target our patrols and take further proactive action.”