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Pudsey Park was named as one of the best in the country when it maintained its Green Flag Award this month, but police want park users to remain vigilant.

Groups of youths were gathering around the new playground and spoiling the fun for families and young people enjoying themselves.

Police stepped up their patrols, and with the help of Leeds City Council officials and other partner agencies, such as the Anti-Social Behaviour Unit, problem youths were identified and action taken.
Neighbourhood Policing Team West Outer Insp Tom Horner said: "Earlier this year the Neighbourhood Policing Team were made aware of the
problems with some groups of noisy and rowdy groups of youths in Pudsey Park.

"These youths were sometimes drinking alcohol, causing minor damage and generally spoiling it for other families and young people who were trying to enjoy themselves in the newly refurbished park.

"We listened to the concerns of local residents and businesses in the area and immediately increased our patrols of Police officers and PCSOs.

"I'm pleased to say that the feedback from local people, our partners
at Leeds City Council, other agencies and my officers is that things have greatly improved over recent months in the Park.

"My officers will continue to patrol the area. I urge people who use the park to report incidents of concern to the Neighbourhood Policing Team at Pudsey Police Station."

Coun Josie Jarosz (Lab Pudsey) said: "The only way that we can solve these problems is by everyone working together.
"I would like to give a huge thank you to Insp Horner and his team because they have made such a difference to the area.

"People have got to report things that are of concern to them otherwise nothing will be done.

"When I have passed the park I have noticed the difference."

* Any incidents of concern should be reported to Pudsey Police Station on (0113) 2414999.