Asbo 'terror', 11, in need of help, claim parents

Tearaway Ethan Armstrong has become one of the youngest children to receive such an order after terrorising neighbours in Hull by climbing on garages, dashing through gardens and throwing sticks and stones at anyone who dares confront him.

He also hurls abuse at nearby residents, who say they are scared of him despite his tender age and small frame – and he was excluded from

school just weeks after starting last September.

But parents Rebecca Hart, 35, and Dean Armstrong, 38, believe Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) could be to blame.

The mother-of-four said: "He's not that bad really. I know he might do things that annoy people, and I know he's a little terror at times but he can be a little angel. He is not a tearaway.

She added: "Ethan is different and we started recognising that when he was maybe three years old. I was told he might have ADHD but was then told the term was an excuse for bad parenting.

"That really upset me. My other kids are okay, I don't know why he is like he is."

Ethan, who has his leg in plaster after breaking his ankle trying to do a stunt on a BMX bike, will be in breach of the order if he is abusive, insulting or threatening to anyone in Hull. He is also banned from going into gardens, climbing on roofs and from two streets near his home.

The boy, who now goes to a pupil referral unit, said: "As soon as I do something bad I know I shouldn't have and realise I am going to be in trouble, but I don't know why I do it in the first place."

A police community support officer said: "This boy has caused regular distress to the community with his all-round behaviour and lack of respect for other people's property."