RESIDENTS living on one of Britain's worst high streets say they love it despite crime being rife.

East Ham locals have hit back at claims people spit on the paths and drink alcohol in the morning.

It comes after the neighbouring area of Canning Town said the street was "definitely worse" than theirs.

However, George Kennedy, 59, is a streetcleaner for the area and said he is "forever cleaning after drug users".

Claiming sex workers are also present at night, he voiced his concern for the younger generation.

Having worked in the area for years, George said homeless people, alcoholics and those using drugs are everywhere.

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He told MyLondon: "It was not like this years ago, now I'm forever cleaning after drug users, homeless people, and alcoholics, they are everywhere."

Boasting hundreds of shops, one owner who sells fruit and veg said he has seen an increase in people stealing from him.

Sajith Vithana, 33, said the area is ok but people have started stealing more since the cost of living crisis.

Pub owner Balani Jeyeamani, 33, said it isn't the worst high street – but admits people are sometimes "threatened with knives" and there is a street drinking issue.

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In March this year a waitress was stabbed while at work and a man was also stabbed inside Paddy Power.

One business owner – who didn't wish to be named – said the area has gotten a lot dirtier over the years and blames residents.

He said: "It's not a nice area to live or work."

With the recent murder of Zara Aleena happening nearby, it's prompted questions about women's safety in the area.

Support worker Lenka Stubnova, 42, said despite it being a "terrible place" she has felt safe in her six years of living there.

She added: "Some people are friendly, if you know them for a long time."

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