Appeal to end antisocial behaviour in Bushmills

A BUSHMILLS resident has called on parents in the village to speak to their children about antisocial behaviour.

The local man said that a number of houses in his area have been targeted by teenagers and he is worried it will “get out of hand”.

Speaking to the paper, he said: “This is a last resort but I am hoping that by speaking to the press that it may make parents realise the extent of the issue.

“The houses around here have had items lobbed at our windows recently in the evenings. It's a group of young people, teenagers, and my guess is they wouldn't like people targeting their family members. We have had enough of the antisocial behaviour and we'd like parents to speak to their teenagers and make them aware that people have the right to live in peace.

“My fear is that now the evenings are getting darker, they will ramp up the bad behaviour. We don't need to be waiting for stones to hit our windows or for our doors to be knocked. I would appeal to parents to make sure they know where their teenagers are.

“We know there are great youths out there, and I don't want one or two bad apples to ruin the reputation of them all, but please rethink before you continue to harass people in their own homes.”

Community member, Leanne Abernethy also appealed to parents to keep an eye on their young people.

Posting on social media, she said: “Concerned residents have reported a group of young people knocking doors, throwing things at windows and causing antisocial behaviour around the village, particularly in Dundarave, Woodvale and the Dr’s Corner, but also elsewhere.”

She later told the Chronicle: “The recent reports of antisocial behaviour in Bushmills are deeply upsetting, particularly when residents are being left frightened in their own homes. They have also brought home how much we miss Dunluce School since its closure in June.

“We had a great relationship with the school and could work together when issues arose in the village. That link between school, families and the wider community mattered, and we are feeling its loss immensely.

“Dunluce was more than a school. It was part of the everyday life of Bushmills, with people working together and looking out for our young people and our neighbours.

“Its closure has left a gap that goes far beyond education. At times like this, that gap feels especially painful.

“We are asking parents to please speak to their children, know where they are and what they are doing, and help them understand the impact their behaviour can have.

“What might seem like a laugh to them can leave a neighbour frightened long after they have gone. Bushmills is a close community, and we all have a responsibility to look after it and the people who call it home.

“With the darker evenings coming, we cannot let this behaviour become the norm.

“Parents, please speak to your young people and make sure you know where they are and what they are doing. If this continues, police will be notified. There can be serious consequences, potentially including a criminal record.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home. Let’s look out for our neighbours and put a stop to this.”

TUV Councillor for the area, Allister Kyle said: “Bushmills is a close-knit community and residents should be able to feel safe and secure in their own homes.

“Reports of antisocial behaviour, including objects being thrown at houses, are concerning and can cause genuine fear and distress for those affected.

“Most young people are a credit to the area, but a small minority risk spoiling that reputation. Parents have an important role to play in knowing where their children are and what they are doing, especially as the darker evenings set in.

“I would encourage anyone experiencing problems to report them to the police so that appropriate action can be taken before the situation escalates.”