Frustration over anti-social behaviour in Marlow boiled over during a public meeting as residents accused authorities of failing to tackle repeat offenders.

Around 100 people attended the event at Liston Court in the evening of August 6, where Thames Valley Police, Buckinghamshire Council and housing providers such as Red Kite and Paradigm answered questions about rising levels of crime and disorder in section areas of the town.

Several residents shared personal experiences of intimidation, vandalism, alcohol-fuelled disorder, witnessing drug deals and ongoing anti-social behaviour.

A crime map of Marlow (Image: NQ)

At one point the meeting became heated when a resident repeatedly challenged officer Harry Gehnich.

The resident began speaking over the officer, who threatened the local to leave the meeting if he didn’t stop.

The resident told police: "We know who the perpetrators are. We know who's supplying the alcohol. They're still there.

"I've reported things so many times that I'm sick of reporting it."

The resident also questioned police response times and claimed officers had failed to attend incidents previously reported in the area.

Some of the stats that were shown in the meeting (Image: NQ)

Inspector Gehnich acknowledged residents' frustrations but insisted significant work was taking place behind the scenes.

He said: "We understand if you're having those issues and it will be frustrating when you're reporting a lot and it feels like nothing is happening.

"Perhaps we're late to the party, but the team is working hard to address it.

"None of this is a quick fix. It may seem simple to just go out and do something immediately, but I assure you we consider all options."

The inspector urged residents not to confront offenders themselves.

He added: "It's important we come together as a community, but that doesn't mean challenging these people yourselves.

"You have to report it to us, and we have to address it.

"I know that's not a perfect solution, but it is the safe solution."

One resident described seeing youths stealing alcohol from shops, while others raised concerns about adults allegedly supplying drink to children.

Police confirmed an 18-year-old had recently been issued with a Community Protection Warning and dealt with for shoplifting alcohol from local businesses.

What the police are aiming to do (Image: NQ)

Residents also voiced concerns over repeat offenders and questioned why some individuals appeared to continue offending despite years of police involvement.

Officials explained that police, youth services and social care must consider individual circumstances when dealing with young people.

Although officers accepted that progress had been slower than residents would have liked, they said anti-social behaviour in the area has been discussed at monthly partnership meetings since May.