Frustrated teenagers have hit back at accusations of anti-social behaviour in Egremont.

A recent police campaign saw patrols increased after locals were intimidated, buildings broken into and property damaged across the Orgill estate.

However, after receiving criticism on Facebook for hanging around outside the estate's shops and disrupting residents, the teenagers reacted by claiming the majority are innocent and have nowhere else to go.

Seeing the response, chair of Egremont town council and Copeland deputy mayor Lena Hogg organised a meeting with the youngsters, who are now looking to get involved in community projects.

"I check Facebook for local issues and the young people were taking a slating. I said why don't we talk to them and ask them what they think," said Mrs Hogg.

She took it upon herself to book a room in Egremont Market Hall to discuss the teenager's concerns.

Now, Orgill's youngsters are working with their councillor and PCSO Sarah Brown to come up with alternative options.

The deputy mayor said: "About 15 kids turned up to meet me. I didn't invite parents initially because I wanted the kids to tell me what they wanted and to tell them what we expect from them.

"It was an amicable, lovely meeting where we talked about the issues and the biggest issue is there isn't any youth provision in Egremont for anyone over 12."

Initial steps have been taken towards resolving the issue, with Mrs Hogg looking to provide a range of activities.

She said: "They said they like to play football but I said they can't do that outside the shops, so we suggested the multi use games area by the rugby union club.

"The young people said it costs money but the PCSO said she had some funding and I'm speaking to the County Council, who deliver youth provision."

And the councillor is looking to involve the young people in community events too.

"The young people showed interest in helping with local projects like the Crab Fair or the Christmas lights display. We've got to give them something for them to give us something back.

"I want to get everyone together to sort it. It's a pity it can't be sorted before the summer holidays begin."