It is a part of our way of life that youngsters go through the process of 'bonding', including congregating in places like bus shelters.

So there's little new about teenagers hanging around in groups and upsetting nearby residents with general noise and rowdyism.

But there is something very much more sinister about the situation developing throughout the district.

Away from the town centre, parks, bus shelters and school playgrounds are plagued by such gangs.

While around the town gangs of macho youths strut the streets, often leaving residents feeling terrified.

Today's yobs have two main 'weapons' in their armoury - fireworks and alcohol.

This area needs to wake up to the fact that copious amounts of alcohol are being drunk by a great number of under-age young people. The result is often mayhem.

Today we report on an area of Keighley which many say is being held to ransom by a group of up to 30 youths.

Even larger than life Cllr Barry Thorne says he is frightened to walk the streets.

The fear is being created by fireworks - some of which have been pushed through letter boxes. They are using airborne bangers which are powerful enough to rattle window panes. One was even thrown into the passenger well of a bus as the doors were closing.

It is no good expecting the police to deal with every aspect of this growing problem of anti-social behaviour. It is once again a community effort.

The public should stand up and be counted, for example by reporting anyone selling alcohol or fireworks to under age children; by letting the authorities know of parents who buy booze for their offspring.

The police and other authorities need evidence to take positive action - and we have a duty to our neighbours to do whatever we can to overcome this climate of fear.

It is great to note the police and mosques are working very closely together to ensure the forthcoming Eid celebrations, as well as bonfire night, pass of as they should in peace and with mutual understanding.