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Backlash family have no regrets
A FAMILY who went public about their six year ordeal at the hands of anti-social yobs say they don't regret speaking out – despite a backlash.
Andy and Bev Alder told the Derbyshire Times two weeks ago how they and children Rowan (18) and Fern (15) had been targeted by gangs of youths in Pilsley where they live.
Despite increased police action since, including extra patrols in the area, Andy (46) was subjected to FIVE further incidents of abuse on Saturday.
He said: "We knew there would be a bit of a storm afterwards but we're still glad we spoke out. Either way it was going to go on and this might stop it.
"We can't just tolerate it and the police are talking to us and working on it.
"We've got to put pressure on the parents and get them to accept responsibility."
The Alders have been spat and sworn at, physically assaulted, intimidated and had their car vandalised.
On Saturday, Andy was going through Pilsley at around 2.15pm when he said a group of youngsters made threatening gestures before an older gang started shouting abuse.
Later on at around 4pm, he said he was twice blocked by five youths – who also made threatening gestures – as he came in and out of a shop.
And he said that evening at 9pm, he and wife Bev (46) were verbally assaulted by kids who threatened to trash their car.
The incident was dispersed when three police cars were called to the scene.
Andy, of Hardstoft Road, said other victims of the yobs had got in touch including one anonymous letter detailing physical assaults and smoke bombs through the letter box.
He added: "Everyone has been really supportive and said we're very brave."
Community Safety Insp Ian Palfreyman said letters had been sent to parents of individuals in the village and police were looking to place one person on an anti-social behaviour order.
He said they were also working with the parish council to provide diversionary activities for the young people.
l Anyone with information about the incidents should call Sgt Sally Blaiklock on 0345 123 3333 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111.
jennifer.ivers@derbyshiretimes.co.uk
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Weather for Eastwood
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: -4 C to 0 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Light sleet showers
Temperature: -0 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South west
