PETROL bombs were thrown at police as mid-summer tension has built up on the Stoops and Hargher Clough estates in Burnley.

And Burnley police chief, Superintendent Mike Griffin, has issued a warning to the ring-leaders of the trouble making groups of youngsters : "We know who you are and you will not be allowed to get away with it.''

Following incidents in the Harold Avenue area on Monday night when two petrol bombs were thrown at police, extra officers were drafted into the area.

A gang of about 70 youths, some as young as ten, had gathered and police had received reports that petrol bombs were being prepared.

One man was arrested and charged with a public order offence. He appeared in court yesterday and was granted bail.

Police moved into the area again last night. Four youths, one aged only 12, were arrested for alleged breach of bail curfew conditions.

They were appearing in court today. A boy of 15 was also arrested for an alleged burglary offence.

Supt Griffin has blamed the outbreak of tension of the estates on the hot weather, boredom, the anti-social element and criminality among a small minority of the population. He assured the vast majority of law-abiding citizens that the situation would not deteriorate to the riots of five years ago.

Det Insp Colin Barton said: "What has been quite obvious this year is that we have the support of the public who have been ringing us with information which will also be treated in the strictest confidence.''

Supt Griffin said Monday night's problems may have developed further had the police not taken firm but fair action.

Yesterday police and members of various other organisations toured South West Burnley reassuring residents that they were aware of what was happening.

They have asked parents to be aware of what their children are doing when out at night.

Supt Griffin said police policy was to target persistent problem makers, burglars and other people who made life a misery for people in the town.

He added: "The message I make trying to give is one of support for the residents and a warning to the criminal element that we will be targeting and concentrating exclusively on the known trouble-makers but that anyone on the fringe is also in danger of being dragged in.''

Anyone found to be in breach of bail conditions would be taken back to court.

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