Strandways Hardware in Strand Parade, Durrington, has a break clause in its lease which it could activate next year after 45 years in the high street.

Brothers Andy and Paul Cooper took the business over from their parents, who started it in 1978.

There has been an outpouring from dozens of people who use the shop regularly.

The parade of shops in Durrington

Stuart Roberts said: “Such good servants to the community over the years. It will be a sad loss and any kids and the family of those kids should be disgusted with themselves.”

Liz Moulson said: “This is a wonderful shop and I’ll be so sad if it has to close. Perhaps ringing a  bell to be allowed entry might be the solution.”

Kate Brown added: “This is such a good shop. I always shop here for bits I need.

“Beyond a shame to close due to this reason.”

Strandways Hardware has seen spray paint, a plasterboard saw and other items stolen from its shop in recent months.

Andy, 50, said if antisocial behaviour in the area carries on, “an independent business of 45 years could close”.

He added: “The community is disgusted about the situation, people are rallying around.

"This situation is bringing out the good of the community but obviously the concern is these youngsters seem to get away with the minor stuff for too long.

“What they’re doing this week is almost going to become boring next week, it’s getting a fix. When you become bored of shoplifting, who is going to get hurt next?”

On May 28, a plasterboard saw, which has a pointed tip, was stolen from the shop and Andy said that during a confrontation he was then pushed.

There was “insufficient evidence” for officers to take this case any further.

Sussex Police have spoken with the shop owners to update them on the status of the investigation.

Spray paint was stolen on June 27. The brothers also claim they were assaulted after chasing children out of the store. The investigation for this is ongoing.

Youth crime in West Sussex

The Argus has reported on a spate of youth crime plaguing the Worthing area all the way up to Hove.

It comes as we revealed a poster was made by British Transport Police of 30 children known to authorities which was given to railway staff to aid with "safeguarding and crime prevention efforts" in West Sussex.

There has been a spate of youth crime near train stations on the Worthing line.

We have highlighted at least 11 different incidents in the area since February which include shoplifting, threatening with a knife and arson.