NEIGHBOURS of a Dorchester family branded as troublemakers have today spelt out their concerns.

Residents of Windsor Road defended their reasons for making complaints that left the O'Leary family facing an anti-social behaviour order being served on them.

Police have decided not to take any action for the time being, but families living near Helen and Sean O'Leary and their four children say that they start all the trouble.

Neighbours on the estate say they have suffered from verbal, racial and physical abuse, faeces being pushed through a letterbox, rubbish thrown into gardens and houses and cars being vandalised.

They accuse the O'Leary family of being one of the worst culprits and believe they are responsible for many of the problems.

Mum-of three Maria Kemp, 32, said: "It is such a shame because this area has really nice neighbours and there's a real feeling of community spirit. I love our street, people are always really friendly, trustworthy and willing to lend a hand."

Trudy Stroud, a 39-year-old mum-of-three, said: "It makes me laugh when they say they are being victimised.

"Speaking to them is a waste of time, you just end up with a row in the street and cannot get on with your normal life."

And a 34-year-old store manager who lives in nearby Roberts Place, said: "We want to make it clear that they are not the ones being picked on, it is us.

"We do not gang up against them - there were no problems until they moved in. They are not the victims, we are."

Chief Inspector Rick Dowell said: "I held an informal interview at Dorchester Police Station with Mr O'Leary who resides in Windsor Road and the crime and disorder reduction co-ordinator for West Dorset District Council.

"An action plan will be prepared in an attempt to reduce the amount of anti-social behaviour incidents with a view to improving the quality of life for all residents in that area.

"Dorset Police will rigorously investigate any future complaints of antisocial behaviour."

Mr O'Leary said: "The meeting was very successful and leaves us with a lot of options.

"Any complaints made by either parties will be thoroughly investigated and we would like people to come and knock on our door and discuss any problems."