Teenage gang 'terrifies' pensioner

Ronnie Evans says he does not know what to do about the gangs

Teenagers who tormented a woman who died in August are continuing a campaign of terror against her 83-year-old father, it is claimed.

Ronnie Evans, from Beaumaris on Anglesey, says he is now being targeted by the same gang who made the last days of his daughter Hilary a misery.

Mr Evans is calling for more police patrols and a ban on skateboarding in the area.

However, North Wales Police say there are CCTV cameras in operation and a new community officer is to start work next month.

Miss Evans, who had mental health problems, died in August aged 60. Her father does not blame the gang for her death but says their behaviour "certainly didn't help her".

When the square in the shadow of Beaumaris castle where Mr Evans lives was redeveloped two years ago, he said it attracted the gang who roam the area on bicycles and skateboards.

"It is terrifying and I don't know what they are going to do next. Ronnie Evans

Around a dozen youths aged between 12 and 15 used to follow his daughter around when she went on walks which were therapeutic for her illness, Mr Evans said.

"She used to go on walks to keep calm but they used to follow her around on bikes when she was walking through the town and taunt her.

"They used to pinch her hat and throw it around.

"One of them used to go up to the window when she was in the house and pull faces at her."

Mr Evans said his daughter's death has not stopped the tirade of verbal abuse and vandalism such as windows being smashed by tennis balls.

"It is terrifying and I don't know what they are going to do next.

Hilary Evans was tormented by the gang on her walks

"Everything has gone to pieces since they closed the police station down a few years ago.

"There is supposed to be a community police officer here but we never see a policeman around.

"When you confront them, they attack you and say: 'What right have you got to tell us what to do?'

A North Wales Police spokeswoman said Mr Evans should contact them immediately if he is aware of any anti-social behaviour.

"There are CCTV cameras covering the main areas of Beaumaris which are monitored constantly.

Illegal

"The local community beat manager can also be contacted and is available to discuss any issues that are causing concern to Mr Evans," she said

She said another dedicated community beat manager would be patrolling the town next month.

Tony Wyn Jones, Anglesey council's community safety officer, said they were "very sympathetic" to Mr Evans and would try to help.

Skateboarding and ball games were not illegal and more practical measures were needed to control the activities.

The council was to talk to the town's new youth centre to encourage young people to use the facilities, he said.