A YORK resident frustrated by nuisance attacks in his street has called for CCTV cameras after a shrub was dumped on his car.

Alec Richard, 51, says residents in The Groves are considering setting up cameras in their homes to try and catch the culprits on film.

Mr Richard, of St Johns Street, blames noise, petty vandalism and other nuisances on local youths and students from the nearby York St John College.

He said today's vandalism, which saw a potted shrub from a neighbour's garden thrown on his car, was the latest incident in a string of problems.

"The situation has improved immensely this academic year and that is to the credit of the college, but I still think the authorities could do more," he said.

"They could be more pro-active and put people on the streets and show a presence to people coming home at night."

Mr Richard said the college was "squeamish" about using CCTV to collect evidence, despite asking residents to collect proof of alleged student disruption.

Finlay Coupar, director of student affairs at the college, said CCTV had been discussed at a community liaison meeting, but its use was as yet undecided.

He said: "It's a very difficult problem and we're all trying our hardest to support the local community, including the college, in dealing with all kinds of misbehaviour."

Carole Patrick, of the Safer York Partnership, said: "The situation in The Groves is a classic example of the need for a joined-up response between the student authorities, police, residents, Safer York Partnership and the city council."

Updated: 11:10 Saturday, April 05, 2003