AVON and Somerset Police has released a video with the testimony of a Minehead resident whose family was intimidated and harassed at their home for almost two years.

Thanks to their bravery and meticulous evidence-gathering, a closure order was issued on the problem property in October of this year.

The video was shared as part of Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) awareness week which took place from November 18-24.

The anonymous Minehead resident, who shared their story in the video, was exposed to prolonged intimidating behaviour by a neighbour for almost two years.

They said: “It sounds menial, but it just wears you down. It’s constant and becomes unbearable at times.

“There would always be something out of the ordinary; fighting, noise, shouting. And when we started to find the needles, it was just scary.

“In one instance there was about 43 interactions on our Ring doorbell. The constant comings and goings, mentally, was just a nightmare.”

“(We’re now) able to live our lives a little bit and relax in an evening and not be scared upon opening the door and seeing some drug addict, or somebody who’s threatening my wife or daughter.

“Be patient, persevere and stand your ground. It’s your home. It’s your life. And nobody else has the right to be able to influence that.”

As part of the campaign, Avon and Somerset Police joined the government, the civil service, other police and fire services, Historic England, housing providers, local authorities and community groups from around the UK to share information and empower people to report anti-social and community safety issues to the right agencies.

In an online statement, Avon and Somerset police said: “We want to send a strong message to the public that everybody has the right to feel safe where they live, and we all have a part to play.

“These behaviours can be seen as low-level issues, but the reality is that for many people persistent ASB can cause harassment, alarm or distress to those who experience it.”

Avon and Somerset Police estimate that 1 in 4 UK adults say ASB has made them feel unsafe where they live.

Clare Moody, police and crime Commissioner, said: “I hear from people across Avon and Somerset about the impact anti-social behaviour has on their lives. It’s not just about nuisance; it can disrupt entire communities, make people feel unsafe in their own homes, and lead to more serious crime if left unchecked.

“Strengthening neighbourhood policing to help tackle anti-social behaviour is one of my priorities, because everyone deserves to feel safe and supported where they live. I have seen the difference that is made through partnership working, targeted patrols, and the tireless efforts of police, councils and community groups.

“I know we can achieve even more by continuing to work together, listening to those affected, and taking action to prevent harm and create safer, stronger communities.”

To find out more about anti-social behaviour and how to report it, visit https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/anti-social-behaviour/