Gangs of youths have been roaming the streets of Watford demanding money and mobile phones.

There have been three reports alone this week of teenagers snatching bags and trying to steal cash.

A mother reported that her son, 15, was twice approached by youths this week – firstly under the Meriden subway near Cow Lane and then near Garston station. The boys, dressed in tracksuits, stopped the lone boy by the station to check if he had money, while another searched his bag, and only let him go when he proved that he didn’t have any cash on him.

Then on Tuesday, at around 8pm, two young men were approached near Cassiobury Park. Two boys reportedly jumped from a car gesturing they would take their mobiles. As the two men began to walk away, the youths said they were calling for “back up” before two more cars appeared and as the victims managed to drive off, they believe the gang were trying to steal their car.

On the Meriden estate, which was also the scene of an attempted armed robbery this week, Cllr Amanda Grimston has echoed previous calls for more police on the streets and says the area is only getting worse.

She said: “I did warn the police that things were getting worse. When I speak to residents, they all tell me the exact same thing. Bring back our local bobbies. I applaud the police and I know how hard they work and know they have been making arrests but we need more.

“Just last week, I had a report about teens pulling on a lamppost in Garston Park. A resident was ready to make a full statement but police attended and just left.

“And then we had this robbery outside the post office. The shopkeepers here are terrified and frightened. Residents need to see police to be reassured but also because if the youths see police, they might think twice about committing crime.”

Hertfordshire Constabulary says it is aware of the reports but urge people to contact police if they experience or see incidents such as muggings.

Watford Chief Inspector Matt Phillips said: “We are now aware of a small number of comments on social media where people are stating that they have been approached by groups of young people and asked for money.

“If this has happened to you it is vital that you report it to police as soon as possible so that we can provide you with support, build an accurate intelligence picture to direct resources to where they are needed most and bring offenders to justice to prevent more people from becoming victims.”

Call 101 or visit https://www.herts.police.uk/Report/Report-Shared/Report-a-crime or call 999 for an emergency.