A FAMILY living in fear of racist thugs has begged to be allowed to live in peace.

The Adejumo family, who moved to a flat in Whitefoot Lane, Bromley, last May, say their lives have been turned into a living hell by local youths.

The family finally turned to the police last week when acid was poured over their Hyundai Accent, causing £1,000 of damage.

The incident followed a series of attacks, including racist abuse, threats and intimidation.

Day nursery proprietor Louise, 31, and her husband, William, 46, says they tried to ignore what was happening until the acid attack in which a section of the car's paintwork was destroyed.

The couple, who have two children, Joshua, eight, and 14-month-old Ester, have complained of noises in the night and verbal abuse “most days of the week”.

Mrs Adejumo said: “We are all living in fear, Joshua is scared to go out and we have to lock all our windows. I'm terrified about the effect this is having on the health of my husband, who needs kidney dialysis three times a week.

“What happened this week is the final straw. Over the last year, we've had people shouting 'black bastard' and 'stupid blacks' outside our door. It was absolutely terrifying.

“The police have been very prompt and have done all they can to help us.”

Mr Adejumo added: “We were previously living in Catford and never had any problems at all. I have to say Bromley is an intolerant place to live and I wish people would leave us alone.”

Lewisham Police Community Safety Unit confirmed it was investigating two complaints from the family and was treating the incidents as racist.

Sergeant Steve Braddon said: “Race crime is unacceptable and anyone who commits such offences will be dealt with accordingly.”

Call the CSU on 020 8284 8339 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.