A 13-year-old boy has been arrested after a vulnerable man was assaulted in Kendal town centre.
South Lakes Police said the incident happened yesterday, Monday December 22 and the youngster was arrested this morning.
Officers said there had been a spike in anti-social behaviour in the town centre in recent days and weeks.
South Lakes Police said: “Young people committing assaults, damage and causing issues for ordinary folk going about their day – its not acceptable and we’re progressing multiple incidents.
“There’s been damage caused, stones thrown and commercial property vandalised.
“We’ve noticed, and received multiple reports of, a lot of young people riding their bikes in town, no lights, no helmets and on pavements, weaving between pedestrians and with no regard for other road users. Quite simply, its dangerous and entirely avoidable.
“We’ve given a number of these young people fair warning, it hasn’t been acted on and subsequently we’ve started removing their bikes something we’ll continue to do, some have been issued with anti-social behaviour referrals, others referred to the Child Centred Policing Team and some will be headed straight for the Youth Justice Service.”
“Our part in these incidents is clear – we’ll allow for some learning, where it may be beneficial, in the alternative, we’ll uphold the legislation available to us and apply suitable resolutions be that in or out of court.
“Parents – you have a role to play too. We know that there are many polite, courteous and respectful young people that make use of the town centre and indeed you may know that this post does not relate to your child – we want those young people to continue to enjoy their hometown – this is an aspect of the culture of Kendal that makes it so vibrant, but if you have even a sneaking suspicion that your son or daughter may be enticed into anti-social behaviour, we’d like you to have a word too.
“The old adage suggests it takes a town to raise a child – we’re playing our part, can you honestly say you are too?
“To be clear – we do not want to prosecute your children, nor take possession of their bikes and the police station is not an ideal place for them to spend any of the festive season.
“That being said, discretion only stretches so far – you can help us avoid this by knowing where your children are and what they are doing and by ensuring they are kitted up properly with lights etc.
“If we take your child’s bike – you can collect it from the police station – this will be as/when we can fit you in. As many will appreciate policing is exceptionally busy over the festive period.
“Help us ensure that over the festive season its only loved ones, friends and neighbours visiting your home, not the local policing teams.”
