A park has been blighted by “unacceptable and dangerous behaviour” with "trolleys-full" of glass smashed.
Herts Police hiked their patrols in Oxhey Park after anti-social groups sparked safety fears. The groups, who appear to be in their early-20s, have been seen drinking and behaving anti-socially in the park in the evenings.
Most concerningly for walkers, bottles of alcohol have reportedly been thrown down and smashed deliberately —with the glass left lying around.
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The broken bottles are then found and cleared away by Veolia park rangers in the morning. The workers have apparently been seen clearing up so much glass that it fills supermarket trolleys.
A walker who frequents the park said he hopes action will be taken to prevent any injuries due to “wanton” glass smashing “as we approach the school summer holidays”.
He added: "We owe Watford Council a debt of thanks for investing in such a positive facility for people of all ages, from babies in prams, to skate boarders, cyclists, scooter riders, dog walkers, and for the glorious wildflower nature park.
“To have mindless revellers deliberately smashing glass bottles throughout the activity park in the evening is criminally thoughtless.
“The thought that anyone, human or animal, could be seriously injured does not bear thinking of."
Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: "We are aware of the reports of people breaking glass bottles and anti-social behaviour in Oxhey Park.
“This is unacceptable and dangerous behaviour and whoever is doing this needs to stop.
“These incidents are being investigated and I know that the police will be patrolling the park more often.
“I would like to thank them and the Veolia staff who are diligently cleaning up the mess to protect the safety of the public.”
Herts Police confirmed they are aware of the reports, including a report for July 4 and said its Safe Neighbourhood Team for the area has incorporated it into their patrols.
Both the mayor and police encouraged residents who have information or more concerns to call police on 101.
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