Growing problem of teen drinking (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Growing problem of teen drinking

6:00pm Tuesday 24th February 2009

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I AM writing as a concerned parent and resident about the area around Marlpool Park on Willowfield Drive, Kidderminster.

I have noticed a growing problem in the local area, and in particular outside the Costcutter shop, involving groups of young teenagers approaching adults and asking them to get alcohol for them.

I and another member of my family have both recently been approached in this way and this kind of behaviour raises cause for concern.

I am even more concerned that once they have their alcohol they are drinking it on the streets and particularly on the children’s play area.

I saw clear evidence of this on a recent Saturday when taking my two young children to the park to play and couldn’t believe my eyes.

All over the wood chippings surrounding the climbing frames and seesaw and the tarmac surrounding the swings were covered in litter, empty beer bottles (lost count after 20), smashed wine bottle, empty wrappers and, worst of all, vomit!

Clearly this was far too dangerous to let my children play so we decided to leave.

It is clear that something must be done to tackle this issue before it gets out of hand and I am particularly worried that children could get injured in the play area, which is supposed to be a place that they should expect to be safe.

Surely there has to be something the council and police could do to prevent this happening, like having the gates locked at night time.

What will it take for someone to notice this is a major problem? Maybe a child will get seriously hurt before someone stands up and does something about it.

Therefore, I have contacted the local councillor and will also be contacting Kidderminster Police to see exactly what Community Support Officers are actually supposed to do!

NAME SUPPLIED Hay Close Kidderminster

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