CONCERNS have been raised about a spate of drug use, vandalism and anti-social behaviour in a much-loved park.

Barrow Park has been plagued by youths who have been drinking, littering and causing damage to public property.

Last Saturday night Barrow Police conducted an operation with night-vision goggles to tackle the issue in response to complaints.

They found young people with drugs and a teenage girl who was drinking a bottle of vodka was driven home to her parents.

Sergeant Andy Travis said: "Members of the public have previously contacted Barrow Police via social media to express their dismay about those spending time in Barrow Park on a Saturday night.

"The concerns are in relation to the behaviour of a group of young people, and the litter and damage that is left as a result of their activities.

"In response to these concerns, officers attended the park on Saturday night. Many of the youths had dispersed, but one young intoxicated girl was taken home to her parents.

"Other parents were advised about the behaviour of their children.

"Police officers and PCSOs cleared up the area, during which a small quantity of drugs were found. Increased patrols will continue in the area and we will positively deal with offences we they are identified."

People who use the park have voiced their dismay at the issue.

One resident who lives nearby said: "Every Saturday and Sunday morning when I've been there to walk the dog, the bandstand has been absolutely trashed with sweet wrappers everywhere. It's been going on for four weeks or more.

"Every weekend I see the poor park keeper with a look of devastation on his face. I just want to go into the park one morning and see him with nothing to do."

"We used to drink when we were younger but we didn't throw things about.

"They've started smashing up the outer fence and the bandstand as well."

Residents who live near the park have also been aware of teenagers congregating near the park at night.

Mrs Lynn Meloy, a resident of Park Avenue said: "I have been aware of large groups of youths walking about.

"It's a gang of at least six to eight. They're a bit rowdy as they are walking past. I have had cause to look out once or twice."

Yesterday the Evening Mail reported that Ramsden nursery school had been attacked by teenage vandals who broke in and caused damage to the property.

Barrow Borough Council has also been involved with tackling the issue. Park rangers from the Streetcare team often find the park in a state of disarray on a Monday morning with graffitti, empty alcohol bottles and litter.

Alan Barker from Streetcare said: "Barrow Park is there for the pleasure of all the residents and it costs a lot of money to maintain and keep it right.

"We will make every endeavour to work alongside every authority including the police to bring these people to justice."