Police to clamp down on anti-social behaviour in Much Wenlock following 'arson and criminal damage'

Police in Much Wenlock are clamping down on anti-social behaviour in the town after a spate of vandalism - including “arson and criminal damage”.

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Police in the area said that over recent weeks they have received a number of reports of anti-social behaviour in Much Wenlock.

The local Safer Neighbourhood Team said there had been “vandalism and damage to benches on the Gaskell Playing Fields”.

Individuals have also been “banging on residents' doors during the early hours of the morning, causing significant distress, fear and anxiety, particularly amongst older members of our community”.

A group of four teenagers also set fire to donated second-hand books beneath the Corn Exchange this week and burnt books have also been found on the Gaskell Playing Fields and Windmill Hill.

Police said: “These are not harmless pranks. The criminal offences involved include arson and criminal damage. The individuals responsible have been identified and will be dealt with accordingly.

“This behaviour is completely unacceptable. Setting fires in public places, damaging community facilities and causing alarm to residents puts people at risk and has a significant impact on our town. These incidents are being investigated as criminal offences and appropriate action is being taken.

“The recent fires are particularly concerning given the current dry conditions. Discarded or deliberately lit fires can spread rapidly, posing a serious risk to life, property, emergency responders, wildlife and the wider environment.

“As part of our ongoing work to tackle anti-social behaviour, which remains a local policing priority, we will continue to work with partners and the community to identify offenders and address concerns.”