YOBS hurling bricks and stones at cars and buses are being warned they could face severe court sentences.

Police are stepping up patrols across Stoke-on-Trent following several reports of damage to buses, including smashed windows from youths throwing rocks.

Similar problems were reported last month in the Fegg Hayes and Great Chell area, particularly around Biddulph Road, and police have since increased patrols in the area. Officers are also using CCTV to identify the culprits.

Over the last week, witnesses have reported stone-throwing incidents practically every night, between 6pm and 10pm, in the Blurton, Newstead and Fenton areas.

Police are now appealing for parents to keep a closer eye on what teenagers are up to during the evenings and for residents to report incidents to local officers.

PC Sean Woodward, from Stoke neighbourhood policing unit, said: "Those responsible for smashing bus windows face being arrested for criminal damage with intent to endanger life, which carries a severe sentence.

"I would encourage people to let me and my colleagues know of any incidents they witness.

"Young people have been spotted throwing bricks and stones at passing buses.

"Police patrols are being stepped up across the area and we will take action against those responsible.

"We are working closely with staff at First Bus to resolve this issue as soon as possible.

"I would also ask parents to be aware of where their children are and what they are doing during the evenings."

First Bus officials appealed for youngsters to think twice about the possible consequences of their "pranks".

A spokesman said: "It is extremely rare for someone to suffer an injury while sat on one of our buses and that is why we are determined to work with the police to capture these young stone throwers.

"If these youngsters just stopped to think for a minute, they may just realise their sister, mum or granddad could be sat on the bus and could be injured by their idiotic actions."

Bill Harvey, of Newstead Community Association said tougher penalties or curfews are needed to stop youngsters "running wild".

He said: "These kids couldn't care less and are not sufficiently intimidated by the penalties. Parents have to be held responsible for them."

Fenton ward councillor and city mayor Derek Capey, pictured, said: "This has been an ongoing problem, especially on Victoria Road.

"Groups of teenagers have been hanging around the area and coming out of alleyways to throw stones at vehicles.

"It's dangerous and must be very frightening for drivers. Councillors and the police have been working with youths to try to stop this behaviour."

Anyone with information is urged to contact PC Woodward at Stoke police on 0300 123 44 55 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.