Three school pupils have been excluded and two arrested after neighbours complained they had been left "prisoners in their own home" following intimidation and property damage.

Royal Harbour Academy was forced to take action after complaints from those living in flats in Clements Road following a spate of fencing damage and threats, which has caused them to fear for their safety - with some even looking to move elsewhere.

In one incident, a pupil is said to have abused a hedgehog which later died, and when challenged by a resident, became verbally abusive and later threw stones at her window.

One man, who wished to remain anonymous, said it was making life hell for him and his neighbours.

He said: "Residents of flats in Clements Road are prisoners in their own homes during school time.

"A small group of pupils have continually destroyed fencing and property to the rear of the flats in an attempt to find a shortcut to school.

"When challenged by the residents they have received nothing but abuse and very strong language.

"One resident who observed a hedgehog being abused, which subsequently died, when confronting the pupil she was called a paedophile.

"Greatly upset, she returned to her flat only to find later stones and debris thrown at her balcony and door.

"The attitude of these youngsters and their intimidation is causing people to seek alternative accommodation.

"This is not right, they are making our lives hell.

"Other local residents have had garden sheds broken into and a patio door smashed by stone throwing."

Police investigating reports of damage to the fence at the school have made two arrests.

A spokesman said: "Two 16-year-old boys were arrested in connection with the offence which was reported to have taken place on February 21. "On March 1 the teenagers were arrested on suspicion of aggravated vehicle taking, theft of a motor vehicle and criminal damage.

"They were interviewed and released under investigation whilst enquiries continue."

Academy head teacher Simon Pullen says the pupils involved from the school have been punished.

"The incident referred to involved a number of local schools," he said.

"While some of our students were present they did not harm the hedgehog and we have punished all of our students present, even though it was outside school hours.

"We expect our students to behave appropriately and we value our relationship with our local community.

"A number of years ago the residents asked that the school grow bushes and shrubs to provide an extra visual and physical barrier between the school fence adjourning the neighbouring houses and the school.

"As these have grown on the school site they have provided from time to time an area for local youngsters to set up camps and dens at weekends and out of school time.

"The school has always acted to help stop this when informed by the local residents."