Terrified residents on one of the UK’s most crime-ridden estates claimed they need to arm themselves with pepper spray to protect themselves and their families from danger.
Many refuse to let their sons and daughters leave their homes - even during the day in Moor Nook, Preston, for fear of running into trouble.
Lancashire Constabulary said it was one of the many key areas of focus in its new operation dedicated to steering vulnerable young people away from getting involved in crime and anti social behaviour.
Until the issue is solved, some people said they keep pepper spray handy at all times, in case trouble flares up.
Betty Copeland, 70, says she fears being alone out on the streets and added she was relieved to hear the police were set to work on the crime in the area.
She told LancsLive: “At on point, years ago, I used to have the local police on speed dial it was that bad but it's not so much now.
“It is a hotspot because you see, the road in front is like a rat run at night with motorbikes, that's one of the biggest problems.
"It's not just motorbikes, cars are just as bad. I came home yesterday and there was a car behind me trying to get past. They must've been doing about 60mph, it's a nightmare.
“It's not too bad for us because we don't have children but if I did, it would only take an accident.
"I'd like it to be a nicer area. Once my husband goes to work, I don't go anywhere, I don't wander about. I felt safer in my old home, in Burnley, than I do here.
“I used to do a lot of walking but my husband doesn't like me doing a lot of walking on my own.
“If I go out I've got a spray, I wouldn't go out without it. It's what you get used to doing, I feel safer having that spray."
“It's just what you do.”
Neighbour Angela is currently in the midst of moving out of the area after 30 years because of the rising anti-social behaviour. .
She added she wanted to move somewhere safer because of her grandchildren.
Angela said: “ Prevention is better than cure, I think there's nothing for youngsters to do- when my kids were little they used to go to the community centre that isn't there anymore and now they've grown up to be fine.
"I don't know whether I was lucky or not but my son did tell me when he was younger, he could've gone down the wrong path but he chose a good friend.
“We have grandchildren now and I'm not too happy bringing them up around here and that's part of the reason why I want to move."
Police have launched Operation Dragonfish following reports of concern from local residents. The task force is currently working with local organisations including Preston City Council, Divert Youth Team and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.
Preston councillor Nick Pomfret said: “This is a positive step because young people have not had a chance and they feel like they've been left behind.
“They may have struggled at school or struggled in family life and felt like they've not ever had the chance.
"So if you can offer guidance, and give them a role model, it has the potential to get them to think differently and change the rest of their life."
