SECURITY cameras may be installed in a cemetery to monitor anti-social behaviour.

The step may be taken at Middlesbrough's Linthorpe Cemetery, where concern has been mounting that yobs are causing problems in the 52-acre site.

Police searched the cemetery yesterday for youngsters who were firing an air weapon at passing traffic.

The Victorian cemetery is a popular hang-out for drug addicts and vandals, who have devastated the Jewish section of the cemetery, smashing or damaging 68 headstones in attacks. Vandals have also driven stolen cars into the cemetery and set fire to them.

Jenny Braddy, of the Friends of Linthorpe Cemetery group, has had to abandon taking several popular history walks through the site after witnessing anti-social behaviour.

She said: "It is an increasing and real problem. I think it comes down to a lack of understanding. I do not think anyone has told these kids one does not do this. It is a cemetery which requires respect, and it is not getting it."

The 19th Century Jewish refugee section of the cemetery is near a road skirting the burial ground and has been devastated by vandalism, Mrs Braddy said.

Middlesbrough Council officials said that despite having increased warden patrols in the cemetery, it was now looking at using security cameras.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, Middlesbrough Council cabinet member for public safety, said: "I am sure every decent person in Middlesbrough will be shocked and saddened by the significant vandalism. The criminals who cause this damage clearly have no respect for people's feelings and the town's heritage and environment."