FRIDAY night sees the launch of a new initiative to crack down on anti-social behaviour in the Burns Road area of Royston. A road show on the night is the first step in the campaign to stamp out yob culture in the area. Inspector Geoff Camp of Hertfordshi

FRIDAY night sees the launch of a new initiative to crack down on anti-social behaviour in the Burns Road area of Royston. A road show on the night is the first step in the campaign to stamp out yob culture in the area. Inspector Geoff Camp of Hertfordshire police's Royston Community Team is heading the campaign. He said: "The vast majority of kids are law-abiding youngsters wanting to socialise outside school. "However, a minority have taken to a range of anti-social behaviour, ranging from mischief right up to criminal acts, including damage and disorderly behaviour." The clampdown comes after police received 16 calls to the area in less than a month. Insp Camp said: "We've got to think more about long-term problem-solving and the way to do that is diversionary activity and education." Police community support officer Michelle Trussell said: "I think kids just move from area to area, and Burns Road is just the "in" place at the moment." The road show will take place outside Coombes Community Centre from 7pm-10pm. Leaflets will be distributed to publicise the event. In attendance on the night will be Royston's mayor Cllr Bill Prime, who is involved in working towards solving the problems around Burns Road. He said: "I think its a marvellous initiative and I'm 100 per cent behind it. "I will be able to talk to people and see what they think as well." Residents are invited to the road show where they can discuss anti-social behaviour, become involved in the solutions and receive crime prevention advice. There will also be crime deterrents on sale, including personal and shed alarms. While the road show takes place, Insp Camp will be actively tackling the problem with fellow officers. "Youngsters who break the law can expect to receive fixed penalty notices up to £80, or be arrested," he said. The campaign aims to tackle the problem immediately while offering constructive alternatives for youths in the area. A boxing club has been set up in the area two nights a week, and the district council is looking for other entertainment for youths in the area. Anyone wanting to get involved shouldcontact Alan Fleck on 01462 474274.