VILLAGERS and police have declared war on the vandalism and antisocial behaviour ruining a peaceful community.

More than a hundred people came together at the weekend to discuss the graffiti that is blighting North Weald. In a recent spate of vandalism, walls and fences spray were painted all around the village.

Police say they are upping their patrols in the area to try to deter the vandals.

PCSO Lizal Scott said: "I have been speaking to local residents who say more and more of these tags are starting to appear. The area we have found the most tags is in Pike Way, it is such a shame as it is a lovely place. Graffiti tags often make areas appear run-down.

"These youths, who we believe are local, may just think they were having a bit of fun, but these residents are now faced with the hassle and cost of removing the graffiti."

Distinctive "tags", such as signatures and symbols, have appeared around the village, while fires have been lit in local parks.

Police have warned that the punishments for anyone caught could be severe.

PCSO Scott said: "Each tag of graffiti could be classed as a separate crime, therefore when we find the people responsible, if they have marked their tag in many different places, they could face multiple criminal-damage charges."

In April last year, nearly 2,000 trees were ripped up on Weald Common, destroying a planned memorial wood.

Last month, vandals attacked the Epping Ongar Railway in North Weald.

Police warned then that the parents of those responsible could be punished, along with their children, and made to pay compensation.

PCSO Scott said: "A lot of people work hard to make this community nice, and graffiti just blights it.

"If you know who these tags belong to, or you saw who did this, we want to hear from you so they can be made to face the consequences of their actions."

Anyone with information should call PCSO Scott at Epping Station on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For full story turn to page five.