A GROUP of up to 30 children have caused anything from criminal damage to setting off fireworks in Newport town centre on a daily basis during the school half-term holidays, say the Isle of Wight police.

In a report posted on the Island police's Facebook page, there is concern about the level of "juvenile nuisance" in the town — but have assured residents and the business community they "are dealing with it". 

The group, which comprise 20-30 children, have subjected shop and retail staff, and members of the public, to varying forms of abuse — verbal and physical.

This includes having food thrown at them, and stock either damaged, stolen or thrown around. 

The group have also been caught climbing on store roofs, breaking into warehouses and stock rooms, causing damage to retail property and trying to force their way illegally into premises.

There have also been instances of letting fireworks off in the street, say police. 

"It is a very small minority. Their behaviour is no reflection on all the pleasant children we engage with daily," an officer wrote. 

"This isn’t a school holiday issue, but sadly an ongoing daily occurrence.

"I was even sad to see someone’s little pumpkin smashed up by some of this group. We got the little boy a new one. 

"We are working with various agencies to try and divert this kind of behaviour, and are dealing with it robustly and with zero tolerance to those who perpetrate it." 

Police ay they have used anti-social behaviour dispersal powers within the town in recent days and have had several of the group in for interview yesterday (Monday) to answer to more than 24 offences committed between them. 

"Who knows what tonight will bring, but I can’t even say they only come out at night as it’s a daytime thing too," the officer added.

"We are ensuring Newport is a safe place to live and work."