‘Terrible to see’ - Concerns over ongoing anti-social behaviour at a South Tyneside nature site
A Fellgate resident has spoken about ongoing anti-social behaviour in a nature hot spot.
Martin Brown, from Fellgate, has hit out about ongoing anti-social behaviour (ASB) around the Fellgate Ponds area.
The 73-year-old has explained that he was found a catapult, warning signs ripped out or smashed up, signs of fires and drug paraphernalia during his daily walks around the ponds.
As a result, Martin has spoken of his frustration at how people are treating the local nature hot spot.
‘Terrible to see’
He said: “It is terrible to see how people treat the area - it really annoys me.
“Every morning I walk round and I’m constantly thinking ‘what am I going to face this morning’.
“I’ve found a bird flu warning sign from South Tyneside Council which has been ripped out and thrown into the bushes.
“I also found a catapult last year, which I believe was used to shoot one of the swans at the ponds.
“I communicate a lot with the lads who go fishing around there and we don’t have any problems with them - the anti-social behaviour isn’t fishing-related.
“It is an ongoing thing and I understand that the neighbourhood police team can’t be there all the time to deal with everything going on.
“The thing is, what can be done?”
Inquires ongoing
Northumbria Police have confirmed that they have received a number of reports related to ASB at the Fellgate Ponds.
A spokesperson for the Force said: “We are aware of reports of anti-social behaviour at Fellgate Ponds in Jarrow.
“Police have received information about a number of incidents over recent months, including criminal damage and further anti-social behaviour, with many believed to involve young people.
“Anti-social behaviour can have a serious and lasting impact on local communities, and we treat all reports of this nature seriously.
“Our enquiries are continuing as we work to identify those responsible, and we will continue to liaise with the relevant local authority and landowners to ensure the area remains secure.
“Anyone with information or concerns is urged to contact us via direct message on social media, or by using the live chat and reporting tools on our website. Those who are unable to do so can call 101.
“In an emergency, or if a crime is in progress, always dial 999.”