ALL SHE ever wanted was to improve the lives of hundreds of people on a housing estate in Southampton.

But now 60-year-old Mo Simmons, pictured above, is quitting her vital community work - after being attacked by the very people she so wanted to help.

Yobs pelted the tireless campaigner with bricks and eggs and then subjected her to a barrage of abuse.

"I just don't have the strength left to fight," admitted Mo, close to tears.

The peace-broker had earned the respect of residents, who knew she was trying to change the quality of their lives for the better.

Mo's dream of turning around the fortunes of Millbrook Towers and the surrounding streets today lies in tatters following the harrowing attack.

She had been expected to play a key role in bringing youngsters and authority figures together for talks aimed at making things better.

Mo had only recently chaired a huge public meeting in Millbrook Towers Community Hall, aimed at tackling youth crime on her estate that had triggered a vigilante response.

Now Mo has decided enough is enough after realising she has become a high-profile target.

Her shock decision to quit followed the incident that took place in Green Lane, Millbrook, around 6.40pm on Hallowe'en, just yards from her home.

Mo was walking back to her Millbrook Towers flat after trick or treating with her daughter Yvette and grandchildren, when she spotted a gang of youths on the other side of the road.

Suddenly one of the youths threw a brick, which hit her in the back. Moments later she was pelted with eggs and called a "grass". Her ordeal continued as two youths came over and grabbed her coat.

She produced her mobile phone and told her attackers she was phoning the police. The gang then made off towards Buttermere Close.

Ms Simmons said: "I've resigned as chairwoman of Millbrook Towers Tenants & Residents Association and I'm washing my hands of other campaigning.

"I'm completely shattered by what happened. I keep breaking down in tears. I'm not really hurt physically but my confidence is gone."

Millbrook ward councillor George Melrose said: "I have a lot of sympathy with her and this is very sad. This is all because of inaction by the police and a lack of support from them."

Police Supt Matt Greening, based at Southampton Central, said he was concerned to hear what happened to Mo, and added that an investigation was under way.

He said: "We are aware of juvenile nuisance problems around Millbrook Towers and have in-creased beat patrols in the area."