RAMPAGING teenagers, vandalism and binge drinking in small play area are making life a misery for residents in a Rainham close.

The play area, next to The Old Orchard, has never been used for the purpose but instead has become a magnet for yobs.

Lesley Moore, who is acting as spokesman for the residents, said: "We have been campaigning for over seven years to have the area removed, to no avail. The residents of this road do not use this play area for their children as it is not a nice place for them to play in, because of the vandalism, swearing, fires, drugs and drink. Also quite often we find these vandals urinating down the slide."

The teenagers do not remain in the play area, but extend their antics to the residents' homes. Mrs Moore said: "We have found used syringes, we have had children getting into our back gardens and we have had missiles thrown over our gardens. On one occasion, one just missed my head.

"Our front gardens are continually being vandalised and it is heartbreaking."

Margaret Rose, 74, received an unpleasant welcome to the road after moving in last summer. On a particularly hot day she opened her front door but within minutes she had a water-filled condom thrown through her door.

She fears that one day something even more serious may take place in the play area.

"There's always screaming, drinking and swearing and they are doing drugs. I always think one day we'll find a body over there," she said.

Despite their campaign, the residents say they still have not been given a definite answer by Medway Council over the future of the play area. A council spokesman said: "The council listens to residents' views and as a result a survey was carried where local people were consulted.

"The findings of the survey revealed a 50:50 split within the community, with about half of the residents wishing to see the play area closed and the remainder wanting it to stay open. Officers and members are currently looking at the best way forward."

Margaret Rose added: "It's like hitting your head against a brick wall." Paul Clark, MP for Gillingham said: "The whole anti-social behaviour agenda is as important to people as health service.

"We have to work with the community to find solutions. We have to make it less attractive to those who abuse the area. I will go down and have a look for myself to see what can be done."