POLICE bosses believe moves to intervene in the unruly and aggressive behaviour of a gang of York youths could save residents from further nuisance.

Two youths have been charged with public order offences in connection with a string of rowdy behaviour incidents around Kingsway West, Stuart Road and Green Lane.

A further two young teenagers have been given formal cautions after they admitted causing criminal damage to vehicles and a public telephone box.

Investigations also identified five other youths aged between 12 and 14 who police felt were at risk of becoming involved in more serious criminal activity. They have signed Acceptable Behaviour Contracts.

Last month the Evening Press highlighted how residents and businesses in the area claimed they were living in fear of unruly teenagers who were "terrorising" the streets.

Green Lane resident Rolf Watson, 34, was left bleeding after being punched in the face by a teenager. He had remonstrated with 20 youths after one of them scratched his car with a bike.

PC Derek Bone, Westfield ward manager, said: "The intention is to discourage these youths from the sort of activities that were causing concern for the rest of the community."

He said: "We have also offered to refer them to other youth services which can provide support and channel them into positive diversionary activities.

"We will be monitoring their behaviour in the coming months and, hopefully, the youths will mend their ways."

Paul Morrison, City of York Council housing services manager for Acomb, said the action sends out a "strong message" to anyone who behaves antisocially. He warned council tenants that they faced breaching their tenancy agreement if they continued to behave badly.

He said: "We are committed to tackling these kind of problems and will act quickly against anyone who causes a nuisance to people in local communities."

Fact File:

Acceptable Behaviour Contracts are informal agreements between the police, local authority and the individual concerned.

They are used in cases where there is concern that a youngster's behaviour may lead them into more serious trouble.

If the children come to the attention of the police again, Antisocial Behaviour Orders, enforced through the courts, may be considered.

Updated: 08:51 Saturday, July 17, 2004