vandalism
Whether in the 1970s or the present day, vandalism is an illegal, anti-social activity that creates a negative impression of an area and contributes to people’s fear of crime.
Defined in the Criminal Damage Act 1971 as 'intentionally or recklessly destroying or damaging any property belonging to another without lawful excuse', vandalism is still a perennial problem. Ranging from graffiti to smashing bus shelter or phone box windows, or removing ‘Danger No Swimming’ signs as in the film, vandalism impacts on communities and could even endanger lives.