Fed-up families in a city street fear the return of anti-social behaviour in their area following a string of problems linked to boy racers.

Householders on Britannia Road in Thorpe Hamlet are becoming increasingly concerned about the return of anti-social behaviour, in particular young drivers in modified cars.

Problems range from drivers congregating in the small car park opposite the prison to speeding down the narrow road.

In some instances wing mirrors have been knocked off cars, and there are issues with loud music and screeching brakes as the cars race around the area.

Andy Sharp, on offshore geologist who lives at the end of Britannaia Road with his wife Rowena, said: 'The sound of the brakes and exhausts has woken us up, and even our son James, whose room is at the back of the house furthest away from the road. I worry about parking my car on the road; many cars along the road have tape holding their wing mirrors on.'

Tim and Ann Spurrell, who live near the car park, have also been disturbed by the noise.

Mr Spurrell said: 'One night I went out and noted 20 different number plates in 40 minutes. Our problem is the noise from the car exhausts and we can hear their brakes screaching at the end of the road.'

David Newham, who has lived on Britannia Road for 10 years, said: 'It is a problem that comes and goes. Sometimes it's very bad, particularly in the summer. The main problems are caused by modified cars and cruising cars. Some nights there are a couple of dozen cars there which can be there until the early hours.'

Jenny Lay, councillor for Crome Ward said: 'The drivers are using the area as a meeting place to show off their cars. Residents can't sleep at night - they are concerned. We have held Homewatch meetings at the Windmill pub which have generated a lot of interest from local residents. The police have said it is their priority.'

Insp Lisa Hooper, from Heartsease and Thorpe Hamlet Safer Neighbourhood Team, said officers had believed the problem was on the decline, but are to carry out patrols in the area to keep an eye on the situation.

'Officers will continue to conduct high visibility patrols in the area, targeting anti-social vehicle use and rowdy behaviour,' Insp Hooper said.

'Additionally, members of the team hold regular street surgeries to gain feedback from local residents. This is an opportunity for members of the public to raise any concerns they may have.'

Is your neighbourhood being blighted by anti-social behaviour? Call Lucy Wright on 01603 772495 or email lucy.wright@archant.co.uk