CCTV for park where lout gangs did battle

CCTV cameras have been set up in a park where a horde of armed youths clashed.

Up to 100 youths congregated and fought with each other at Little Bowden Recreation Ground, near Market Harborough, in the early hours last month.

Harborough police said residents were living in fear of the fighting, drug-taking, drinking and noise on the park.

Police imposed a dispersal order between 7pm Saturday and 7am on the Monday after the fight on Friday, June 26.

No further incidents were reported and no arrests were made.

After the clash, police found two knives and a metal bar in the park.

Surveillance cameras have been installed in the park, off Northampton Road, as part of a concerted crackdown by Harborough District Council on anti-social behaviour.

The move is supported by the police.

Councillor Simon Whelband, chairman of the Harborough District Community Safety Partnership, said: “This a strong message that we are watching the park after the truly disgraceful scenes last month, when people were fighting, taking drugs and drinking.

“We are saying we will catch anyone acting in an unlawful manner. We are taking a zerotolerance approach to any antisocial behaviour.

“The installation of the cameras has been widely welcomed by residents, who just want to enjoy their neighbourhood in peace and quiet.”

Council staff and police officers have stepped up regular patrols around the park in a bid to prevent any further incidents.

Inspector Siobhan Gorman, of Harborough and Wigston police, said: “We will be closely monitoring the situation and working with the local authority to address any concerns from the local community.”