ANGRY parents have hit back at claims their children are terrorising Theydon Bois.

Mums and dads have been calling our newsdesk all week following our report on anti-social youths gathering at the village hall car park in Coppice Row. They say the trouble is being caused by older youths who are coming in to the village from other areas and causing trouble.

Celia Roe, 50, whose son Danny, 13, often skates in the car park, said those responsible for lighting fireworks, leaving litter, climbing on roofs, causing criminal damage, and swearing at local homeowners and visitors to the village hall, were youths who arrived in their cars.

Mrs Roe of Graylands, Theydon Bois, added: “My son and his small group of friends have been skateboarding here for over two years without any trouble, and with the full knowledge of everyone, including the community police.

“I know all the children very well and I can say without doubt they have acted at all times within the law and have been courteous to nearby residents.”

She added the dispute had highlighted the lack of youth facilities in the village which she said would benefit greatly from a new skate park, similar to the one at Stonards Hill in Epping.

Councillor Sue Jones, chairwoman of Theydon Bois Parish Council, said: “We are aware of the concerns about the youngsters congregating in the car park and using the steps and ramps for skateboarding.

“Unfortunately, since Essex County Council decided to close the youth centre in Loughton Lane, opportunities for teenagers to meet informally have been restricted. As a result of this, the village association and parish council have met with police to identify the best way forward.”