Stone-throwing youths have been terrorising elderly residents at an old people's home.

Westgate House, in Wallingford, has 61 frail, elderly residents, yet has been the target of vandals since it was opened by Princess Alexandra in October 2003.

But the latest escalation, with smashed windows and the home's security lights system taken out, is a step too far, says Stella McNeill who manages the home for the Orders (ok) of St John charity.

She said: "This is causing real danger to our people. Breaking glass can shower already seriously ill patients and the noise of the stones is frightening many of them."

In a bid to tackle the problem, Ms McNeill and activities co-ordinator Wendy Bowd are going to speak at schools and youth clubs.

Ms McNeill said: "We cannot say exactly who is to blame, except that the stone throwers and the fence breakers are young people.

"So we will speak to the heads of the local primary schools, to students at Wallingford School and to the town's youth club.

"I am sure the heads would be horrified to think that their youngsters could be involved."

They also want to talk to people in the town's youth club in Clapcot Way, just behind the home, which is off St George's Road.

She said: "We want to be charitable and it may be that these young people do not know just who we have here.

"These are frail elderly people, many of them from Wallingford and some could even be the grandparents of the stonethrowers.

"They are here because they cannot look after themselves and it is our job to make sure they are well cared for.

"We hope that by explaining a bit more about Westgate House and making people aware of our work here, the damage, graffiti and other nuisances can be stopped."

Mrs Bowd said: "The security system is costing £3,500 to repair. We have considered installing CCTV cameras but that is a very expensive option."

Police have been informed of all the incidents.