A WORRIED Sidemoor resident has criticised his local councillor claiming he must be "living in a bunker or ivory tower" for not knowing the full extent of the troubles in the area.

Ray Young, of Melbourne Road, called the Advertiser/Messenger after reading an article in last week's paper containing the views of Councillor Athol Deakin, (Lab-Sidemoor).

Cllr Deakin claimed that reports of vandalism and anti-social behaviour in Sydney Road and the grounds of Sidemoor First School were exaggerated.

Ray said: "It is clear Councillor Deakin does not live in Sidemoor, as it appears he has not got his finger on the pulse of the area. I have had trouble in Melbourne Road and near the NewSong Community Church for years now, with youths drinking and gathering on the church grounds and in the road. Councillor Deakin must be living in a bunker or ivory tower because he clearly is not up to speed with what is going on," said the 66-year-old.

Sidemoor councillor Bill Newnes (Bromsgrove Independent Group-Sidemoor) agreed that there was a problem adding: "The problem is not an isolated incident confined to just the school grounds and Sydney Road, it is also a problem in other places in Sidemoor. I think Councillor Deakin needs to get his head out of the sand because something needs to be done.

"Youngsters have nothing to do in the area. We need to look into building a skate-park or BMX track, also making certain areas alcohol free zones would be a good idea," he added.

Councillor Deakin said: "I find Councillor Newnes' comments a bit fresh due to the fact that, at the last full council meeting, he voted to cancel capital funding in Sidemoor.

"I accept there are other isolated incidents in the area but do not think these should be blown out of proportion. I do agree, however, that areas of Sidemoor should be made alcohol free zones."