Tearaway schoolchildren are putting lives at risk by throwing missiles at learner drivers and lying down in front of vehicles on a Luton estate. Youngsters on October half term caused havoc in Farley Hill by launching eggs and stones at passing cars.

And the unexpected snow created further problems as the troublemakers made snowballs with stones inside to cause maximum damage.

Les Stonnell, of Luton And District Driving Schools Association (LADDSA), said: "Last week one instructor had his window smashed. We've had eggs thrown at cars. Another driving instructor was doing a manoeuvre and some kids opened the door and shouted abuse and started banging on the windows.

Every school holiday sees youngsters aged eight to 15 out on the streets pummelling motorists with stones and missiles in that area. And the latest craze for the youths is to lay in the road, putting their own lives at risk.

The problems are making learners reluctant to drive in Farley Hill in case they are targeted. And instructors are beginning to avoid the area to prevent their vehicles being damaged.

A Beds Police spokeswoman said: "It's obviously very dangerous for people learning to drive, other motorists on the roads and the young people themselves. We will be out in that area and will deal with any young people doing this robustly."