A COUNCIL worker is calling for a crackdown on yobs misbehaving in parks.

The Rochford District Council employee, who did not wish to be named, contacted the Echo about vandalism, antisocial behaviour and underage drinking in parks in Rayleigh, Hockley and Hawkwell.

The man, who regularly litter-picks in 11 sites across Rochford district, raised particular concerns about Clements Hall where the teen shelter has been continuously smashed up, and Sweyne Park.

He also said in Fairview playing fields, in Rayleigh, a number of trees were recently snapped at the entrance to the field and he spent an hour clearing up after garden furniture was dumped there.

The man is calling for police to give out dispersal orders and fines in these parks to remove the troublemakers.

He said: “I have lived in Rayleigh for many years and it is slowly turning into a tip. It breaks my heart to see this mindless behaviour.

“The amount of litter and broken bottles that has to be cleared at Sweyne Park is bad.

“It’s a shame because there are many young groups of youths that behave well, but there are a small minority that treat the facilities with no respect.

Tony Humphries, Rayleigh councillor and chairman of Rochford District Council, agreed dispersal orders could be the way forward.

He said: “It is a major problem and not restricted to only one park. Anything like a dispersal order that will stop these vandals congregating in such numbers is a good thing.

“We need to encourage youngsters to take part in activities like sport, cadets and youth groups to become more social-minded and civilise their behaviour.”