Gang of yobs gathering in Doncaster during lockdown vandalise buses

We may have entered lockdown again – but we have had reports of groups of youths in Thorne gathering and even damaging buses, writes Insp Alison Carr.
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In the main, most people seem to be complying with lockdown rules. But we have had reports in the last few nights of groups of youths throwing objects, even throwing things at buses.

Two broken bus windscreens are among the problems reported, as well as general nuisance.

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Groups of up to 15 have been reported over the last couple of nights.

Bus, pictured on Trafford Way. Picture: NDFP-06-10-20-Buses 6-NMSYBus, pictured on Trafford Way. Picture: NDFP-06-10-20-Buses 6-NMSY
Bus, pictured on Trafford Way. Picture: NDFP-06-10-20-Buses 6-NMSY

We are currently working with Doncaster Council on a joint visibility plan, and we hope to nip this problem in the bud.

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There are other areas that we are monitoring, and they include Jubilee Park in Stainforth and Dentons Green Park in Kirk Sandall.

These are areas where we have had reports of youths gathering, as well as nuisance motorbikes.

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Where people are telling us of breaches of the rules by shops, perhaps opening when they shouldn’t, we are checking those out.

Some are doing click and collect, which they are allowed to do.

We have not had to take action against any businesses yet in Doncaster East, but we are keeping an eye on things.

As usual at Halloween and Bonfire Night we ran the usual Operation Anticipate to reduce antisocial behaviour.

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There were not quite as many incidents as we get in a normal year, but there were reports of youths in Edenthorpe throwing fireworks. They fled when we arrived. I would have liked the chance to give them some advice.

Luckily, no one was injured.

On November 12, we carried out a raid on a house on Willow Avenue, Thorne. A small amount of drugs were found, thought to be cannabis, and one person has been

interviewed and will appear in court.

The previous day, November 11, we had the force off-road bikes team in the area. They covered various sites from Armthorpe to Askern. No one was caught, but we gained new intelligence.

Finally we have had a lot of complaints recently from residents about people parking in front of their houses.

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However, unless there are parking restrictions in place, if a car is taxed and licenced, it can be parked anywhere as long it is not causing an obstruction.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.