By Phil Coleman

Last updated at 10:37, Saturday, 25 October 2008

Covert police patrols have been sent out on to the streets of Keswick to crack the case of an unidentified gang of egg-throwing youths.

An egg

Youngsters are targeting homes across the town, hurling raw eggs and fruit at windows and doors and prompting a flurry of complaints from annoyed residents.

The youths involved are thought to be egging each other on but police say it’s no yolk for victims.

The attacks have happened randomly across the town, with incidents reported at Heads Road, Derwent Street, and Headlands.

Police say the craze is now getting so out of hand that they are mounting extra patrols – including an officer in plain clothes – in the hope of catching the culprits.

PC Stephen Rogac said the egg attacks were potentially upsetting for victims, particularly the elderly.

He said: “There have been a confirmed number of incidents recently, probably reaching into double figures.

“It doesn’t seem to be specific houses that they are picking on – it seems to be pretty random and all around the town.

“Potentially, it could cause a lot of stress and anxiety to people who don’t want the hassle of having to clean up the mess it leaves.

“It could also be dangerous as eggs can be hard enough to hurt some people. I’m not aware any eggs have been thrown at motorists but that would be a major concern.”

He confirmed that police are following up one or two leads but they want to hear from anybody who can help them unscramble the town’s egg-throwing mystery.

He added: “People should be aware that this kind of thing can be quite distressing.”

A spokesman for the force added: “This is antisocial behaviour at the least and if damage is caused those involved could be charged with offences.

“We will be increasing patrols in the area.”

Police have also said they will increase patrols to Fitz Park after the area was found to have unacceptable levels of litter, including broken bottles, and general nuisance caused by teenagers.

The spokesman added: “The area of the children’s playground can often be covered with broken glass which is a health and safety issue.

“We would ask people to phone in if they see this sort of behaviour in the parks and if possible, give descriptions of the offenders.”

Call police on 0845 3300 247, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

First published at 10:01, Saturday, 25 October 2008
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk