VICTIMS of vandalism and antisocial behaviour are being urged to report every incident in a bid to secure more police support for their community.

There were also calls for a dispersal order and security cameras, at a meeting of more than 40 residents and business owners in Strensall, to highlight disorder problems which have escalated in recent months.

Problems plaguing businesses at Martin House in Barley Rise and nearby residents include graffiti, verbal abuse from alcohol-fuelled youths and criminal damage. An electricity box has been smashed, guttering damaged and doors broken down.

A nearby resident in his 90s became the latest victim after his home was burgled at 4am one morning.

Graham Carver, director of financial advisors York FM at Martin House, called the meeting at the village hall after his window was smashed.

"My lease comes up in September. I had thought seriously about leaving the building because of the hassle," said Mr Carver, who is offering a cash reward for information leading to the prosecution of the culprits.

His request at the meeting for suggestions for a "clear fix" triggered calls for a dispersal order to control youths' unruly behaviour.

Residents and businesses also pushed for CCTV to be installed. Parish councillor John Scott offered to ask fellow councillors about a possible contribution to the cost.

Strensall police officer PC Katherine Wright said records of problems were essential to secure extra police support or a dispersal order, and she urged people to report every incident.

"The longer the list of incidents, there will be more resources put your way."

But she said: "Dispersal orders are fantastic on paper, but it is a case of how do we police it? It is displacing the problem."

Phil Snowball, of Costcutter at Martin House, said problems of vandalism, litter and youths hanging around were getting "progressively worse", with youngsters converging from all over Strensall. "They are an absolute nightmare. It can't continue."

Michael Miller, a local resident who recently moved from Manchester, said: "Coming back here makes places in Manchester look nice. We have had some quite violent incidents, and it is people like myself who get involved who have to fear being arrested for dealing with them."

Residents agreed to write about their concerns to the chief constable of North Yorkshire, and draw up a petition asking for more police support.

Paul Spencer, of Spencers Property Management, which runs Martin House, agreed to ask City of York Council to remove its recycling bins from behind the building, after hearing they were targeted by youths.

l To report crime, phone York Police on 0845 6060247. Incidents of litter, graffiti and antisocial behaviour can be reported to York Pride Action Line on 01904 551551.