Appalled members of a neighbour renewal group have sent a message of support to a Bradford street cleaner who was hauled from the cab of her sweeper by a gang of thugs.

Members of the Thornbury Neighbourhood Renewal Unit said they were shocked and ashamed by the actions of eight youths who struck in nearby Bradford Moor.

The attack, which left the cleaner badly shocked although unhurt, has led Bradford Council to declare dozens of streets in the area a "no-go" area until the safety of its workers is guaranteed.

Georgina Graydon, 54, a member of the Thornbury Neighbourhood Renewal Unit, said the thugs were ruining attempts to improve the area.

"We are shocked and ashamed that this incident has taken place in our neighbourhood, we are trying to work together as a community to improve the area we live in and there are only a few mindless people who want to destroy the good work we are doing," she said.

"I feel great sympathy for this poor woman who was just trying to do her job. If anyone has any information about who committed the attack they should contact the police immediately."

Thornbury Neighbourhood Renewal has been awarded a grant of £5,000 from Bradford Vision to assist with the regeneration of the area.

The money will be used to host community events to encourage residents to become involved in cleaning up the area they live in.

Problems faced by residents of Thornbury include the dumping of refuse, derelict housing, car crime and drug dealing, said Mrs Graydon.

The Thornbury Neighbourhood Renewal Unit is applying for further funding to tackle these issues.

Police have appealed for witnesses to the attack in Amberley Street at 2pm last Tuesday to contact officers on (01274) 376459.