WINSFORD residents breathed a sigh of relief this week after the occupants of a flat associated with persistent anti-social behaviour were kicked out.

Tenant, Sean Smith, 26, and 20-year-old occupant, Joshua Furmedge, were evicted from 19 Abbots Way for three months while landlords, Weaver Vale Housing Trust, press ahead with a permanent eviction via county court.

It’s the first time an Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 Closure Notice has been issued in Cheshire Constabulary’s western division – and only the fourth time in the whole county.

Winsford police have been praised for the ‘excellent’ result, as well as the bravery of those residents whose testimony helped secure the order.

At Crewe Magistrates Court on Wednesday, July 2, solicitor in-house for Cheshire Police, Elizabeth Heavey said that in May alone, police were called to the address on May 10, 21, 22, 23, 24 and 30.

Reports included violence, drinking, littering and parties that lasted until 8am.

Winsford Sergeant Fez Khan said disorder associated with the flat was so bad that more than half a dozen officers at a time had to be dispatched to the address.

“We know that if the police deal with one of the occupants, others they’re associated with quickly get word and very soon afterwards there can be a mob of them,” he said.

“All are extremely hostile towards the police. It poses a risk to us – responding to that many people who are often drinking and carrying glasses or bottles.

“When we try and explain that their behaviour is reprehensible, we are met with four-letter tirades.”

Inspector Dave Snasdell added: "The behavior of these two men, along with their associates, has for a number of months caused havoc for the local community.

"There has been drunken parties, fighting outside the property, domestic disputes and many more acts of anti-social behaviour which the local residents have had to put up with.

"We have tried other avenues for these individuals to address their behaviour and to live in an acceptable way in the community but they have not been willing to change.”

Responding to testimony at court, Sean Smith said: “I allowed Josh to live with me because he was homeless.

“There have been a couple of times when we have had a drink and it got a bit loud. Things got out of hand and I can appreciate that.”

Sergeant Khan said Winsford neighbourhood policing team were ‘delighted’ with the court result.

“This sends out a clear message that police have the powers to deal with people who think there’s nothing wrong with causing disturbances like this.”

Matthew Cox from Weaver Vale Housing Trust added: “We were happy help Winsford policing team take this swift and decisive action, and we congratulate them on the excellent result.

“Fortunately this type of problem is not common in the Grange area.

“Our thanks go to the residents who have taken a brave stand by reporting this anti-social behaviour, and we’re pleased that they’ll now be able to live their lives without the fear of more disturbances.”