TWO brothers served with anti-social behaviour orders in Droitwich are the victims of society, according to their father.

Charles Bonehill claims his sons' troubles stem from a lack of amenities in the town.

His claim has been backed up by town councillor Claude Heeley.

Mr Bonehill said the lack of amenities had forced 17-year-old Marc and 18-year-old Anthony to hang around in town parks and play football in the street.

The youngsters, the first to be served with ASBOs in the town, have been accused of causing "harassment, alarm and distress" to people in Droitwich.

But their dad insists they are only guilty of trying to entertain themselves.

"This all came about a few years ago when they started playing football near the shops and the local pub with other lads," said Mr Bonehill.

"They had nowhere to go and so they decided to entertain themselves.

"People started to get irate with them and effing and blinding at them, and so they answered back.

"This escalated over time and some of the kids have thrown bricks through windows, but I am confident mine have never taken part in that.

"As far as I am concerned the only thing they are guilty of is a bit of backchat. It is stupid of them, I know, and when they answer back to a policeman, they are asking for trouble.

"But I don't think they deserve to be treated like this."

The teenagers, of Meadow Road, both face up to five years in prison or a "substantial" fine if they flout the order - which bans them from playing football in certain areas, causing alarm or using foul language and gestures.

Police have warned that more ASBOs are in the pipeline and hope making an example of the two brothers will deter other people.

Independent councillor Mr Heeley has backed Mr Bonehill, saying there was nothing to entertain children.

"While nothing excuses kids answering back to people, the problems in this town stem from the fact there is nothing for youngsters to do."