What prompts teenagers to commit acts of mindless vandalism such as the wrecking of the wooden bridge which spans Waller Hill beck near the Ginnel in Skipton?

Idleness and boredom are often cited by the culprits when they are eventually caught and hopefully this lot will be collered and shown the error of their ways.

But there is a broader issue and it relates to the old fashion standard – resect. Respect for the environment, respect for fellow human beings but above all respect for your parents.

Did any of these idiots – a witness believes there were seven of them aged between 13 and 16 – think of the distress and shame this could cause their mums and dads when they are dragged through the courts?

One thing that’s important to remember, however, is that this group of idiots do not represent all young people.