POLICE have targeted antisocial behaviour by stepping up patrols in parks in Southend and Leigh.

Officers claim graffiti and underage drinking levels in Priory Park have dropped since the launch of Operation Egg in June.

It was introduced after a 28-year-old woman, who has a speech impediment, was taunted, spat at and robbed by a teenage boy, as she walked past the duck pond in the park, off Victoria Avenue, Southend.

The attack at 10pm on June 16, was the latest in a series of offences in the park, which includes anti-social behaviour and criminal damage.

Insp Dave Colwell said: “The museum has been vandalised many times, but the attack on this woman was the last straw.

“The Blenheim neighbourhood policing team has been carrying out patrols and covert work in the park, including stop checks on numerous people.”

The team’s work led to one local boy, under the age of 18, being arrested for a public order offence. He was later released with a caution, while another two people were cautioned for possession of cannabis.

Mr Colwell said the number of incidents in the park had reduced as a result of the operation.

As well as Priory Park, the police team covers Belfairs Park, Chalkwell Park, Leigh Library gardens, Bonchurch Park and numerous smaller parks within housing estates.

Mr Colwell said: “We do a fair bit of work around the parks because we want them to be a safe environment for people to enjoy themselves and we are aware crime is committed in these locations.

“The neighbourhood teams regularly patrol the parks to make a significant impact on levels of crime and antisocial behaviour.

“Obviously, during school holidays and other relevant times, we put in extra effort to make sure there is no trouble.”

Police are still investigating the attack on the woman, who had her mobile phone and house keys stolen. The teenage attacker was white, aged between 14 and 16, of medium build and with short, dark hair.

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Nick Morton at Leigh police station on 0300 3334444 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.