At a meeting on Wednesday, councillors explored the idea of youth workers running weekly sessions to interact with youngsters to steer them away from anti-social behaviour.

Councillors agreed that some youngsters would find it easier to talk to a youth worker rather than a parent or police officer, with the youth sessions getting teenagers off the streets and doing something positive.

It is also hoped new CCTV cameras in Shirebrook will lead to a reduction in crime and an increase in arrests.

But councillors agreed a higher police presence is needed in Shirebrook and believe it would be the most effective deterrent to criminals.

Said Coun Steve Fritchley: "We are desperately short of police officers in Shirebrook and I think we should be writing to the police authority to request more officers in this area.

"People should feel safe in their own community and a higher police presence would help achieve this.

"The last thing we want is people avoiding Shirebrook because they do not feel safe here."