But credit must go to the management of the shopping centre who have decided to treat the matter seriously and attempt to make contact with the disgruntled kids to find out what the problem is and offer to discuss their grievances.

The centre's head of operations has used the youngsters' own method of protest – through the social networking internet site Bebo – to try to get in touch.

The kids' complaints will seem silly to many who will believe it is absolutely right to move them on if they are causing a nuisance.

But in some cases it may the way they are approached that produces a sense of injustice – and, let's face it, most adults are guilty at one time or another of dismissing the sensibilities of youngsters.

The very fact a web page devoted to complaints about the situation at Eastgate was set up in the first place and now contains dozens of unflattering comments about staff would indicate that there may be something worth investigating.

An adult with a complaint about a member of staff would go straight to the top and expect it to be treated seriously – but the expectations of teenagers will be lower when dealing with figures of authority and Bebo appears to be their method of protest.

The fact that Eastgate managers are prepared to interact with them is refreshing and will offer them a voice.

It would be a worthwhile exercise in laying down firm guidelines on what is acceptable behaviour in and outside the mall and what is not. It is also in the interests of the shopping mall, as many of these kids will be its future shoppers.

Let's hope those behind the web protest take up the offer of discussions. Otherwise they could be viewed as merely anonymous whingers.

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