PUPILS at two York schools have come under fire from residents concerned about litter and graffiti.

One resident living in the Scarcroft Road area of York is blaming youngsters at nearby Millthorpe and All Saints' RC schools for dropping litter and spraying graffiti during their lunch breaks.

One 32-year-old local businessman, who did not want to be named, said: "I am concerned by the lack of care in the community demonstrated by students from both schools.

"I live in Gray Street and, since the weather has improved, have found myself wading through an increasing pile of litter through the back road.

"The council has gated our alleys, but seemingly the students are undeterred, and blatantly, continue dropping litter."

He said he had emailed the head teachers at both school to make them aware of the problem.

The Press reported last month that York will get a further 209 alleygates. There are currently only 16 alleygates in place in the city, but that is set to rise to 67 next month when Clifton gets its "ring of steel" scheme.

The resident said: "In one hour I saw around ten girls with Millthorpe jumpers on filling the back road, dropping litter, spitting, smoking, using foul language and being menacing in their manner. I, and many of the other residents, have frequently discussed this problem and over the last few years have brought this to the school's attention many times.

"In these cynical times, it's too easy to blame everyone else, and I think these schools ought to be doing more.

"I witnessed two girls from All Saints' writing graffiti on the garage doors adjacent to Scarcroft Green. I would like to know why we have to put up with this."

The head teachers at both schools, Bill Scriven at All Saints' and Tony Wooton at Millthorpe have both said they will be in touch with the businessman to discuss his concerns and find a solution.

Bill Scriven, head teacher at All Saints', said: "We will contact this person and take up his offer of help to find a solution to this problem."

Local councillor Sandy Fraser said: "I think we have all got to work together, the street environment officers can issue fixed penalty notices and £30 fines, but the real solution is for the kids to be good citizens and enjoy the facilities on Scarcroft Green, but to respect them also and respect their neighbours.

"If the schools in question cannot encourage youngsters to improve and respect their local community, I think residents do feel the schools should take some form of action."