An idyllic Kent village known for its centuries-old bridge and picturesque church spire is battling an antisocial behaviour crimewave.
Eynsford’s quiet riverside setting attracts photographers and artists, with ducks on the water and families picnicking along the banks.
But now, Sevenoaks District Council is consulting residents about implementing a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to tackle the chaos.
Some locals have questioned whether antisocial behaviour exists at all – but an evidence log compiled by the Sevenoaks District community safety partnership tells a different story.
The council is also considering a similar order for Westminster Fields in nearby Horton Kirby.
At one point in Eynsford, between 15 and 18 youths rampaged through the village, stealing, swearing and more.
“Gangs of youths causing disturbance in the Castle Hotel, Five Bells pub, Jan’s Sweet Shop, Raffertys and finally in the Plough pub, causing antisocial behaviour,” the dossier reads. “Plough management called the police three times.”
Young people armed with catapults went on to kill wildlife and smash a home’s window.
The evidence log also documents horses and traps blocking the ford crossing, bringing the village to a standstill.
At one point in Eynsford, between 15 and 18 youths rampaged through the village
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Multiple vehicles and horseboxes were parked on double yellow lines, obstructing traffic.
Around 15 horses gathered at Riverside on one occasion.
Counterfeit notes were used at a local business.
Kent Police logged 60 reports of incidents in the Eynsford area between January and October last year.
And the proposed PSPO would prohibit drinking alcohol after “being warned by an authorised person who believes the individual has engaged in antisocial behaviour”.
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Management at The Plough had to call the police on multiple occasions over the chaos
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Those causing trouble could be ordered not to return to the area for 24 hours, while behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm and distress would be banned.
Obstruction of the highway and ford, including by vehicles and carriages, would also be prohibited.
Council staff or police could enforce these rules.
Non-compliance could result in a fixed penalty notice of £100, with those prosecuted facing fines up to £1,000.
The council has stressed the order is “not in any way intended to restrict people’s enjoyment” of the areas.
If its cabinet approves the orders on June 16, they would take effect in July and remain in place for three years.
Local reaction to the proposal has been mixed.
Some residents argue a “copper on the beat” patrolling the river would suffice.
Kent Police logged 60 reports of incidents in the Eynsford area between January and October last year
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One resident said: “Kids will be kids, the difference is years ago kids had more respect and there was a stronger police presence, beat bobbies would patrol estates and towns and such, since now they are mostly all mobile they have lost that connection to community.”
Another welcomed the measures to “combat some of the appalling behaviour down at Eynsford Riverside during the summer months.”
One man said: “Well I’ll be taking my horse down to the ford in the summer to wash off in fresh water and I’d like for anyone to stop me. I don’t cause no harm. I’m polite and always keep myself away from public around me.”
Cabinet member for people and places, Lesley Dyball said: “We take antisocial behaviour very seriously.
“We have listened carefully to the community who have concerns about behaviour at both locations, especially during the warmer, longer days.”