YOBS are terrorising Canvey Island starting fires and causing a golf club to close and nothing is being done, it is claimed.

The “fear factor” is rising with talk of private security following the latest incidents.

On Saturday three fire crews rushed to Third Avenue, Canvey after grassland the size of a tennis court was on fire.

It took an hour to put out with the cause still classed as “unknown”.

The fire follows others during the summer as well as nine incidents at the golf club this year.

Canvey independent councillor John Anderson said residents are worried about the lack of response from police.

He said: “I think we could do with a private security firm to patrol the island.

“I am annoyed that there doesn’t seem to be enough response from police with these issues.

“I think residents are worried and the fear factor will only increase as more and more incidents happen.

“It cannot go on with these criminals just terrorising the island, it seems they know they can get away with it.”

During the summer fire crews were called to suspected arson attacks on fields close to the golf course.

Following nine reported crimes last year and nine more this year Castle Point Golf Course, Somnes Avenue, Canvey took the decision to remove staff with a “play at your own risk” policy for golfers.

Only two arrests have been made and no one has been charged.

Tory councillor Ray Howard accepted there are issues on Canvey but insisted the same issues happen elsewhere and the council is working to tackle the problem.

Across Essex there were 636 fires in grassland, woodland and crops between May and June this year compared to 294 in 2014.

About a third of them this year are considered deliberate.

Dave Bill, director of prevention, protection and response for Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, said during the summer months the fire services sees a sharp increase in the number of field and grass.

He said: “Young people who deliberately start grass fires need to think about the consequences.

“By starting grass fires you are not only risking hurting yourself and others, including firefighters, you also risk criminal prosecution and a fine, or even a prison sentence.”

A spokesman for Essex Police, following the incidents at the golf club, said: “We’re aware the golf club has suffered from anti-social behaviour, including people riding motorbikes, and criminal damage since last year.

“We understand these incidents do have an impact and have provided crime prevention advice to the golf club. Unfortunately there have been limited investigative opportunities to identify suspects. We prioritise our patrols based on where there is the greatest threat, harm and risk.”