ANTISOCIAL behaviour by youths is identified as one of the main worries of Chesham's residents, a survey revealed.

A comprehensive survey of the town's residents found people were wary of passing through the town centre at night-time.

A report by Chesham Community Vision (CCV) said: "Many local people, both young and old, do not feel totally safe after dark and many respondents identified antisocial behaviour, particularly in the town centre at night, as their principal worry. More activities for teenagers and a higher level of policing are frequent requests."

Tackling antisocial behaviour was the top community challenge for the town, said 48 per cent of respondents, while 18 per cent of residents said saving Chesham Hospital was the priority.

The report added: "Many people expressed their concerns about the uncertain future of Chesham Hospital which for many symbolises an assurance that there will be adequate healthcare provision within the Chesham area."

The survey, held in February, attracted more than 700 comments while 400 people attended a display in Chesham Town Hall.

On an economic front, residents expressed the need to regenerate the town centre while the top environmental challenge was to deal with fly-tipping and litter.

The report also said life is becoming more difficult for many Chesham's elderly residents with a principal concern being access to vital services and shops for those with mobility problems.

As well as gathering residents' views, the CCV's aim is to help action groups to meet the challenges set by the survey.

The CCV was born from the Chesham consortium and made up from representatives of the town's ethnic minority groups, young people, town council, business, local heritage and community associations.