MOTHERS with young children are angry after being sworn at by teenagers they caught using tots’ play equipment.

The mums were in Castle Park, Colchester, with their children and found group of 16-year-olds on the equipment.

Helsie Pilkington, 26, was forced off the trampoline on which she was bouncing with six-month-old Dexter.

She said: “They were really intimidating. They even told us they were 16 though the signs say 14 is the age limit “I had Dexter in my arms and was almost thrown off.”

Sarah Jones, 32, was at the playground with her daughter Caitlin, two. She said: “The older teenagers are setting a bad example.

“You don’t expect to be abused when you ask them nicely to move off equipment they are not even allowed on.”

The new equipment was officially opened in April.

Ian Baalham, Colchester Council’s parks and recreation officer, said: “Despite signs clearly outlining the play area’s age restrictions, some teenagers over 14 still attempt to use the park.

“A member of security staff patrols from noon until closing every day.

“Part of this patrol includes the new children’s play area and if anyone over the age limit is spotted on the equipment, they will be asked to move on.”

Mr Baalham said an emergency phone number was displayed on the park notice board if parents needed to call for help.