ELDERLY people are living in fear after gangs of youths started fires on a piece of derelict land close to their homes.

People living in Phoenix Court, off Heron Drive, Darlington, have been too scared to leave their homes after dark due to the arson attacks, which have taken place over the past two years.

Last week, firefighters were called to eight incidents, which people living in the area believe involved children under 14-years-old.

Reports of stones the size of cricket balls being thrown at houses and cars from the field have also been made to the police and Darlington Borough Council.

Lingfield ward councillor Ian Haszeldine has been working with residents since the problem began two years ago.

He said: "We held a public meeting last year to put a stop to the acts of vandalism, but we are still having problems.

"Stones the size of cricket balls are being thrown at people's houses and vehicles.

"However, the fires are our main concern. The gangs set fire to fences and trees and it is a wonder they haven't spread to homes.

"The elderly residents are living in fear. The only way we can move forward is if the residents, the council, police and fire service work together."

The area used to be a building yard and quarry and Coun Haszeldine believes that has damaged the land, which is why it has not been developed.

He said: "One way to prevent the problems would be to make the fencing surrounding the field higher so the youths can't gain access in the first place."

Residents want to see more police in the area, especially between 6pm and 7pm, when they say most incidents happen.

One resident, who asked not to be named, said: "I don't know anyone who lives in this area who will go out after dark. One elderly lady, who lives closest to the field, feels terrorised."

Acting Inspector Alex Clarke, of Darlington Police, said: "We are aware of the problems and we have responded by increasing our patrols in the area. This will continue for the foreseeable future."

* Police suspect a group of youths were involved in setting alight an empty house on Tuesday night. The house, in Holly Street, Darlington, was undergoing a refit. Witnesses are asked to call police on 0845 606 0365.