75762-7DEMANDS are being made to kick the parents of yobs who have been vandalising Penhill community centre out of their homes.

Thugs have begun breaking in regularly and running riot.

Three windows have been smashed, storerooms forced open and sweets and bingo prizes stolen.

But residents say they will not stand back and let their centre be torn apart.

With their help, the police have been able to arrest four youths.

The gang aged 14 to 16 were caught near the building following a tip-off.

Local councillor David Glaholm (Penhill, Lab) said: "I'm very pleased, they are fighting back against this gang of thugs who are causing mayhem."

"I will be asking the council's housing department to evict the families of these kids."

Scores of people use the centre in Chippenham Close, every week.

Children enjoy discos, while pensioners flock to play bingo. Val Ayres a 63-year-old grandmother who runs the Penhill Community Association says the damage will cost around £800 to repair.

She said: "Last month alone we were broken into six times and earlier this month they got in three times in one week.

"They've been rampaging around in there, causing chaos.

"It's mindless vandalism done out of boredom.

"A lot of witnesses are too scared to report things like this, I'm just so glad a few brave people have called the police."

Figures out last week revealed that crime is falling in Swindon.

But police say anti-social behaviour remains a problem and vowed to crackdown on troublemakers.

A common gripe from police is that witnesses are often not prepared to contact them.

Acting Inspector Robin Colbourne who runs policing in north and west Swindon welcomed the proactive attitude in Penhill.

"We can't operate without the assistance of the public, and I'm really pleased this call resulted in arrests," he said.

"I would urge anyone who sees anyone causing damage to call us, you don't have to leave names."

Sarah Deacon, spokeswoman for the Swindon Council, said: "We are aware of the problem in this area and have been speaking with our colleagues in the crime and disorder team and the police. If the local community wants to do something about the situation then we can start to take appropriate action."

The centre's garden is currently being revamped with £50,000 of Lottery cash.

New flowers, plants, seats and play areas are planned.

Coun Glaholm added if anyone wants to donate money or organise a fundraising event to help pay for the damage they can call him on 01793 323921.

Tamash Lal