The claim follows reports from Council workmen of young people hanging onto vehicles, jumping out in front of vans or walking directly behind triple mowers.

Mr Edd de Coverly, Ashfield's Head of Neighbourhood Services said that although no accidents had yet happened, it could be only a matter of time until someone got hurt.

“The youths are distracting our drivers which could cause an accident. We have reported the incidents to the Police, but just want to urge the youngsters to think twice before they put themselves and the workmen at risk.”