POLICE are investigating the sudden death of a man in Poole who died after fending off a gang of youths from his home.

The group of children, some believed to be as young as 10, had been vandalising Graham Green’s van in Arne Avenue. He pursued them in a vehicle towards Newlyn Way and, while doing so, collapsed and died, the Daily Echo understands.

The 58-year-old suffered from a heart condition and had recently undergone bypass surgery.

Dorset Police received a report from the ambulance service of his death just after 10am on Saturday, December 2.

A spokesperson for the force said: “The death is not believed to be suspicious. Our thoughts are with the deceased man’s family.

“It is believed that this may be linked to a prior incident of anti-social behaviour shortly before in Arne Avenue, between the junctions of Arne Crescent. Officers are currently making further enquiries into the circumstances leading up to the death.

“The neighbourhood policing team has been providing additional patrols within the locality.”

Residents in the area voiced their concerns over anti-social behaviour at a Safer Neighbourhood Team meeting a few days after Mr Green’s death.

Alderney ward councillor Mike Fisher said complaints ranged from vandalism to intimidation of residents.

“We had a meeting with representatives from Dorset Police and a lot was put forward about children with knives.

“Three young women with families said they had continued reporting anti-social behaviour to the police, but it was not being taken seriously.

“I think it’s a general problem across the country, but we get our fair share of anti-social behaviour in the Alderney area. Police haven’t got enough resources to deal with the issue.”

Poole Neighbourhood Inspector Andy Edwards said: “The local neighbourhood policing team (NPT) takes reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) very seriously, and we work alongside the local authority, the community and other local agencies to prevent and deter such behaviour.

“I would like to remind everyone that ASB will not be tolerated in our communities and we will deal with such incidents robustly.

“Anyone who has any concerns about ASB can contact the NPT for support, advice and reassurance.”

Earlier this week, the Daily Echo reported that police officers in Dorset may be forced to give up investigating low-level offences due to a lack of finances.

PCC Martyn Underhill issued the warning at a meeting to discuss the future of policing in Dorset at Police Headquarters in Winfrith.