Neighbours

[CaroMD]

Last year I returned 8 footballs that had come over the fence in a matter of days and that was just one of many similar occasions. Never apologised or thanks. Neighbours now have a basketball hoop just the other side of the fence by the house with constant bouncing noise and just took back 2 balls that could have damaged pots and plants on my terrace. I asked that they make sure nothing else comes over in case of damage and was shouted at “Children have a right to play in their own garden.” I agreed and said we need to work together but neighbour still angry and told me children now not allowed to play football in the garden in respect for me. Why do I feel I’m the problem?

Stop giving the balls back. Make them come over and knock and ignore the door. Ask them to move the hoop so the balls won't go into your garden anymore. Put trellis on top of your fence to make it taller.

Truth is, they KNOW they are being unreasonable otherwise they would not have prohibited their children from continuing.

You are not the problem - their parents are!
There are idiots who think because they have children, everybody has to endure whatever is thrown at them (literally). If they want their kids to play basketball in the garden, they need to move the hoop next to their own house. If they want them to play football, they need to take them to the park or nearest open space. Sure they have the right to play in their own garden - but their game is expanding to your garden!

Good parents teach their kids about boundaries are respect for others. Sadly some parents don't do that and as soon as you complain, you are the problem.