Hertfordshire police will prioritise a Harpenden park, following a number of incidents in St Albans green spaces.

Rothamsted Park will be "the focus of [our] attention", according to the Constabulary's Harpenden and rural safer neighbourhood team.

A number of incidents have taken place at St Albans' Clarence Park and Longacres Park in recent months.

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These incidents have sparked investigations by Hertfordshire police, with officers appealing for witnesses and increasing patrols in the areas.

An "increased number of calls" has now been noted in regard to Harpenden's Rothamsted Park.

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Constabulary's Harpenden and rural safer neighbourhood team said: "Rothamsted Park is now the focus of our attention, following an increased number of calls and reports from the public and partners.

"We have disrupted anti-social behaviour by seizing alcohol and issuing warnings.

"We have seen a reduction in criminal damage and anti-social behaviour since the introduction of CCTV cameras by Harpenden Town Council.

                                                                                            

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"However, we will continue high-visibility patrols in these areas and other parks in the area alongside covert (plain clothed) patrols."

A meeting was held at Harpenden Town Hall on Friday (June 30), when anti-social behaviour, speeding and vehicle crime were chosen to remain as the three neighbourhood priorities.

The spokesperson continued: "Just after the meeting on Friday, two PCSOs went into Rothampstead Park and dealt with ASB (anti-social behaviour) – parents of the young people were spoken to...

"...Redbourn recreational ground was previously identified as an issue but following intervention by your SNT (safer neighbourhood team), the number of calls has significantly decreased.

"Officers proactively patrol the areas in uniform and plain clothes, actively engage with people in the parks providing reassurance to residents.

"If ASB is detected, names and address are taken and persons dealt with by ASB orders, and if needed, enforcement."

The Harpenden and rural SNT also confirmed that six arrests have been made in three months, in regard to theft from motor vehicles and vehicle interference.

"Regular covert and overt patrols" will continue, as officers tackle this issue in the town.