THE neighbourhood policing team and Ludgershall Parish Council are calling on the community to help stamp out anti-social behaviour and criminal damage at the Recreation Ground.

The recreation ground at Dewey's Lane is funded by the local community and has a playground area and a skate park for the older children, which the police and council say is being abused.

A statement issued by police said: "This is a problem which has been going on for some time and we are appealing for the help of the local community to stop these incidents from occurring.

"We are aware of numerous incidents including small fires which have been deliberately lit causing damage to the tables and benches, and damage has been caused the play equipment, all of which is costly to replace. The parish council estimate that it will cost in excess of £13,000 to repair the damage.

"I am sure you will agree that it is not acceptable for this anti-social and destructive behaviour to continue, particularly as the public fund this facility.

"If the damage continues, the facility and support for the play equipment will be withdrawn and the playground area and skate park will be lost.

"Help us to stop this from happening by reporting any suspicious or anti social behaviour in the area so we can keep this community facility."

Anyone with information regarding damage or anti-social behaviour is urged to contact Tidworth Police Station by calling 101 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.