Teenage boozers are turning a skateboard park into a late-night drinking den, claim safety chiefs.

The skate park in Wivenhoe's King George V playing field has become a regular haunt for under age drinkers since it opened exactly a year ago.

Police have repeatedly seized alcohol from youngsters, said Ken Rogers of Wivenhoe Neighbourhood Watch.

But glass from smashed bottles is still putting skateboarders and BMX riders who use the park at risk.

"There is a small minority who have been congregating around there late at night for several months," said Mr Rogers, who is also a town councillor.

"Alcohol is a serious problem elsewhere and we want to nip it in the bud in Wivenhoe before it escalates any further."

Mr Rogers praised Wivenhoe officers for the way they tackled the problem.

"The police have been very good. They seize the drink and tip it away, but they can't be everywhere at once," he said.

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