FOR the last couple of years, life has not been the same for the residents of Jones Street in Newport.

They say they have found it hard to go about their daily routines because of abuse by the Curley brothers.

Now they are hoping the Anti Social Behaviour Orders put on the two by a court may go some way to restoring normality to the Baneswell community.

Today they gave their reaction to the Argus.

A 32-year-old man, who said his family had been repeatedly targeted by the two, said: Were pleased the police have done something about it but I dont think it will stop them.

Their behaviour is so ingrained they wont be able to change it for a simple court order.

The mother of a 15-year-old boy she claims was targeted by the two brothers said: My son used to walk through Baneswell to go to town because its the best way to get there. Now he goes any which way he can but through Baneswell because hes intimidated by them.

He was walking six inches taller when I told him what happened in court and our friends who live in Baneswell are overjoyed.

A man from St Woolos Road said: Weve all suffered terribly in Jones Street and St Woolos Road.

Im sceptical whether the ASBO will work, It will be interesting to see what happens.

A mother from St Woolos Road added: Theyre part of a gang of about eight or nine and sometimes they spread across the street and dont move when cars try to get by.

The police might as well set up a station here.

l Stow Hill councillor Miqdad Al-Nuaimi said: This is very good news for the residents of the Baneswell area.

This has been going on for two to three years in terms of people complaining about anti-social behaviour.

The police have proved they were serious about ending this nuisance for the people.

People in Jones Street and St Woolos Road were telling me they had a lot of damage to their property and they just felt completely insecure about things. Its a sorry situation to see any resident subjected to something like this.

My hope is that the situation will improve for everyone, the family of the boys as well.

l Editorial comment: page 22