PEOPLE in a Kent village are calling for the removal of apple trees to deprive missile-throwing yobs of their “ammunition”.

The call came after two householders in Pope Drive, Staplehurst, claimed apples, custard and spaghetti had been lobbed at their homes.

The residents have asked Staplehurst Parish Council to back their request for the removal of a number of nearby apple trees. But they were told the trees were the property of Maidstone Borough Council.

The home of one resident, who asked not to be named, bears the damage of a recent apple barrage which left fruit spattered over a window and two gaping holes in a facia.

She said she was reluctant to have it repaired at a cost of £400 only for the vandals to destroy them again.

“It happens every year,” she added. “I have told the council they are putting ammunition in their hands. It was a stupid idea putting apple trees there in the first place.”

Another resident, who has lived in the Staplehurst area for some 60 years, added: “The council have to sort it out because it’s getting worse every year. People are frightened of getting hurt.”

In the same area recently a golf ball struck by a teenager narrowly missed hitting a baby.

PC Tim Stanley, community officer for Staplehurst and Marden, called on witnesses to come forward with descriptions of the alleged offenders adding: “Some of the time it’s kids messing around but there are certain elements engaging in criminal activity who enjoy attacking and humiliating people.”

He said about two months ago a couple felt obliged to leave the area after being repeatedly targeted by yobs intent on ruining their way of life.

Anyone with information can call police on 01622 690055.