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Police patrol Peterborough nature reserves after behaviour concerns

Cambridgeshire Constabulary A body of water with greenery around itCambridgeshire Constabulary
Patrols will continue throughout the warmer months

Police will continue to patrol beauty spots following anti-social behaviour (ASB) concerns.

Fires, drug taking and off-road motorbiking meet ups were reported at the Eye Green nature reserve and Manor Farm community centre in Peterborough.

Cambridgeshire Police also highlights the dangers of lake swimming.

A spokesperson for the force, said: "Patrols will continue throughout the warmer months."

Dale McKean Nitrous oxide cannistersDale McKean
Nitrous oxide cannisters have been found

Dale McKean, chairman of the Eye Open Space Group said ASB was "dangerous" and welcomed the police patrols.

"Motorbikes are being driven around the village and the parks causing mighty damage to the field and a danger to children playing on the park." he said.

"We have been seeing nitrous oxide cannisters and smashed glass bottles that splinter into the grass and cause harm to dogs walking there or children playing if not cleaned up.

"Then there is the issue of barbecues, fires and rubbish being left. It isn't good for nature and when we start getting dry zones again, we could end up with big fires if people carry on."

Dale McKean Motor Bike damage around Manor Farm ParDale McKean
The use of motorbikes in the parks and villages was reported to police and councillors

Mr McKean has lived in the village for more than 40 years and said ASB is not a new problem, but often increased during school holidays and in warmer weather.

He said there were also safety concerns for people swimming in "danger zones".

Cambridgeshire Constabulary Burnt patch of grass at a nature reserveCambridgeshire Constabulary
Officers have also encouraged people to "come and say hi" if they see them on patrol

A police spokesperson said: "We have recently been made aware of concerns of anti-social behaviour, such as fires being set, anti-social use of off-road motorbikes and drug use.

"Patrols will continue throughout the warmer months in a bid to deter the issues and keep it a lovely space for you all to use during the nice weather!

"We are aware that the nicer weather often leads to people choosing to go swimming in the lake, which can put them in danger and there are signs around outlining these dangers and asking you to stay out of the water."

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