At this time of year youngsters are looking forward to the school holiday with enthusiasm.

However, for some in our community, the summer break can signify the start of a very trying and arduous time.

Please make sure that your children are aware that not everyone shares their enthusiasm for the holiday and that for many people the summer days are simply ordinary work days.

Most children are responsible and keep themselves occupied during the holiday, but there is always a small minority who will use the excess of free time to cause anti-social behaviour that can have a very negative effect on the quality of life for others.

During the summer my officers will continue to work with borough partners to make sure that long-term solutions are in place to divert children into more positive pastimes and away from less desirable ones that upset others and could ultimately get them into trouble.

Neighbourhood Policing teams will be on hand in the borough’s green spaces and conduct patrols throughout the day, evening and in hotspot areas at peak times ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the parks and communal areas this summer without the nuisance of anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime.

ASB seriously diminishes the quality of life for those who are affected by it on a regular basis.

What can seem like “kids being kids” for a single incident can escalate to misery when the same incidents are repeated over and over on a regular basis.

If your life is being affected by anti-social behaviour please contact your Neighbourhood Police team at your earliest convenience. Catching a situation early on makes it much more straightforward to resolve.

With a little consideration for others, everyone can have a safe and enjoyable summer.