A MOTHER and her four-year-old daughter were surrounded by a gang of drunken and abusive teenagers as they walked home from school.

The 28-year-old mum from Walcot, who does not want to be identified for fear of reprisals, said her daughter was trembling and almost in tears after the incident involving three girls aged about 13.

She said: "I was walking home through Sussex Square when we were approached by three foul-mouthed girls.

"They were out of their minds with alcohol, insulting me and swearing at my child.

"I stood up to them and told them they shouldn't speak to adults like that, but it took them five or ten minutes to go away.

"As they were leaving I said 'I'm not scared of you' and at that point they came back."

She said: "Kids these days nothing scares them. These girls had no respect.

"They were plastered in make-up, trying to look hard.

"This needs addressing. I don't feel safe walking my child home from school. I'll take the bus from now on.

"Where are their parents? Why are they allowed to roam the streets looking like cheap tarts?"

Police confirmed that they had received a report of the incident. A Swindon police spokeswoman said: "On police arrival the suspects had left the area and a search of the vicinity was negative.

"Swindon Police, in partnership with Swindon Council and other agencies, are committed to policing the problem.

"Members of the public and the business community are encouraged to call the Together Action Line on 0845 605 2222 to give information relating to anti-social behaviour in any part of the town."

Dave Andrew