23/12/2025
2666 👋
We're appealing to the young people (and their parents) of
We've seen an increase in ASB in the town centre. Young people committing assaults, damage and causing issues for ordinary folk going about their day - its not acceptable and we're progressing multiple incidents.
There's been damage caused, stones thrown and commercial property vandalised. Completely unacceptable.
We've noticed, and received multiple reports of, a lot of young people riding their bikes in town, no lights, no helmets and on pavements, weaving between pedestrians and with no regard for other road users. Quite simply, its dangerous and entirely avoidable.
We've given a number of these young people fair warning, it hasn't been acted on and subsequently we've started removing their bikes something we'll continue to do, some have been issued with ASB referrals, others referred to the Child Centred Policing Team and some will be headed straight for the Youth Justice Service.
This morning, following a vulnerable male being assaulted in the town centre last night, we have arrested a 13 year old boy. He's got some questions to answer. 13 years old and spending his day in custody......
Our part in these incidents is clear - we'll allow for some learning, where it may be beneficial, in the alternate, we'll uphold the legislation available to us and apply suitable resolutions be that in or out of court.
Parents - you have a role to play too. We know that there are many polite, courteous and respectful young people that make use of the town centre and indeed you may know that this post does not relate to your child- we want those young people to continue to enjoy their hometown - this is an aspect of the culture of Kendal that makes it so vibrant, but if you have even a sneaking suspicion that your son or daughter may be enticed into ASB, be riding their bike as described above or conducting themselves in a manner that the average member of our community would question - we'd like you to have a word too. The old adage suggests it takes a town to raise a child - we're playing our part, can you honestly say you are too?
To be clear - we do not want to prosecute your children, nor take possession of their bikes and the police station is not an ideal place for them to spend any of the festive season. That being said discretion only stretches so far - you can help us avoid this by knowing where your children are and what they are doing and by ensuring they are kitted up properly with lights etc.
If we take your child's bike - you can collect it from the police station - this will be as/when we can fit you in. As many will appreciate policing is exceptionally busy over the festive period .
Help us ensure that over the festive season its only loved ones, friends and neighbours visiting your home, not the local policing teams....
