A RESIDENTS' association chief is being accused of playing down anti-social behaviour in his town.

Investment banker Andy Houghton says Petts Wood is becoming a no-go area where marauding gangs of drunk youths cause havoc as night falls.

He says residents' association chairman Peter Varley should have a closer look at the situation because it is getting out of control.

Last week News Shopper reported how jogger Jane Kilpatrick, 40, was set upon by a teenage thug in Queensway, the town's main street.

And over the past year, News Shopper has regularly featured stories on businesses and homes being vandalised suffering smashed windows, graffiti, and arson attacks on fences and hedges.

Mr Varley says the problem is "worrying and upsetting" and people "shouldn't have to live in a society where kids come up to you and intimidate you".

And he added: "This is a safe neighbourhood compared to other parts of the borough."

He has been joined by Petts Wood business association chairman John Charsley, who says the problem is not too bad.

But Mr Houghton, who has lived in Petts Wood for two years, disagrees.

He said: "I honestly think he should get out there and have a look for himself. They are an absolute nightmare.

"As soon as it is dark they are always out drunk and hassling people.

"It's very intimidating and I would be very interested to know what their parents are doing while this is going on."

Six months ago, the 30-year-old was surrounded and threatened by a gang of 15 teenagers as he left Petts Wood train station with his girlfriend.

He added: "The police presence in Petts Wood is appalling.

They obviously know there are problems but would prefer to ignore them as they must think both Bromley and Orpington are more important."

Orpington sector officer Inspector Nick Stratford says a Safer Neighbourhood Team which will put more police on the town's streets will be introduced at the earliest opportunity.

Do you think the situation in Petts Wood has been blown out of proportion or is out of control? Call 01689 885716.