Fear grows in South Tyneside as residents say youths are “terrorising” streets

Fears over crime and disorder are growing as residents describe parts of South Shields as “like the Wild West” and call for stronger action.

One family in East Boldon is even thinking of leaving South Tyneside after their work van was attacked with an axe outside their home.

The builder said the damage was so bad he first thought it had been in a car crash. After reporting the incident, he claims police told him the attacker was unlikely to be caught and that no officers came to the scene. Northumbria Police later confirmed the case was closed due to lack of evidence.

His partner said what scared them most was the idea of someone driving around their estate with an axe.

Frustration in the area is growing fast. A new Facebook group set up to report anti-social behaviour has gained more than 2,000 members in just four weeks. Residents are sharing videos and photos of smashed windows, groups of youths causing trouble, and other problems across the area.

Some people now avoid going into South Shields town centre completely. Others say their elderly relatives no longer feel safe there. Many are also worried about groups gathering at the bus and Metro interchange.

Mark Berriman, a former independent council candidate who helps run the group, said some residents have stopped reporting incidents because “nothing ever changes”. He described Biddick Hall as a “war zone” and raised concerns about dangerous off-road and electric bikes being ridden through the estate.

The problems have also hit public transport. Stagecoach North East recently suspended some bus services after vehicles were blocked and attacked. The company said the decision was made to protect passengers and drivers.

Northumbria Police say only a small minority are causing the trouble. They say they have increased patrols and are using plain-clothes officers on buses, specialist teams, drones, and DNA marking spray to catch offenders and seize illegal bikes.

South Tyneside Council says it has stepped up patrols in problem areas and is asking residents to keep reporting incidents. Nexus says it is committed to keeping the South Shields transport interchange safe with dedicated security staff.