A REVIEW of CCTV in Rayleigh will take place today.

Calls have been made to increase the number of cameras around the town to catch gangs of yobs causing havoc on the streets.

Councillor Ian Ward, of Rochford Council, said: “I can confirm a new committee are meeting today which will discuss the CCTV issue.

“I will be attending, and I am more than happy to give my views on CCTV in the town.

“The problem is actually higher up than people think.

“The courts are the problem.

“They take little action and keep letting the offenders back into our community.”

The meeting comes after families shared their concerns with Essex’s police, fire and crime commissioner, Roger Hirst, and Chief Insp Glen Westley at a meeting last week.

One of the biggest concerns was the level of anti-social behaviour and more serious incidents by teenagers in particular.

A spokesman for Rayleigh Residents’ Association, speaking after an increase in police patrols, said: “It is really positive to see more police and I get the feeling they’re doing more.

“The police supported CCTV and said that it would be useful.

“Residents don’t understand why it is taking so long.”

During last week’s meeting residents complained of children being attacked, shops vandalised, tyres slashed and cars damaged.

Chief Insp Westley, district commander for Castle Point and Rochford, said police officers were aware of the issues and the force was working to combat the problem.

Calls for CCTV are particularly for High Street, Rayleigh and the surrounding roads.

Two youths have been arrested following an increase in patrols during the past week.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Levi Bellfied, 18, of Belgrave Close, Rayleigh, was arrested in Nevern Close, Rayleigh on May 31.

“He has been charged with criminal damage and is next due to appear at Southend Magistrates’ Court on September 12.

“A 17-year-old boy was arrested at the same time on suspicion of breaching a criminal behaviour order and has been released under investigation.”