TEENAGERS will be given the power to make more decisions in a village in a bid to combat anti-social behaviour.

Tollesbury S6 Streetlife Youth Club will see teenagers take responsibility for issues affecting young people and have their say on how money is spent in the village.

The move comes after a spate of anti-social behaviour including an incident of arson in October.

A playground climbing frame at Victory Recreation Ground in Elysian Gardens, was destroyed after the evening blaze.

The arsonists were described as “mindless juveniles” by chairman of the recreation ground and parish Councillor Gerald Goody.

Now mum Vikki Chambers has decided to set up the organisation which will act like a youth council.

Vikki, 38, of West Street, said: “We have had a lot of vandalism in the village and I think the kids are getting the rough end of the stick.

“They are not really involved in what goes on. The youth club doesn’t appeal to all ages and they end up hanging around in lit areas.

“In response to the anti-social behaviour happening in the village we are giving the kids a voice.”

The scheme has already received the backing of Tollesbury Parish Council and Essex County Council.

An adults working group has got it off the ground but Vikki said it was now time to hand the reigns over to the kids.

She hopes there will be opportunities to get funding for the group to look at issues for youngsters in the village including ideas such as more lighting at the skate park.

“If the kids can take more ownership they are less likely to destroy or let others destroy things,” she said.

“It will also build a better relationship with the adults.”

Two pupils from Tollesbury Primary school will also be elected to the group.

Drop in sessions to find out more about the scheme will be held on February 29, March 7 and March 14.

Locations and times are to be confirmed.