POLICE are upping patrols in Wellington following anti-social behaviour and criminal damage in the town following the easing of lockdown restrictions.

The latest incident yesterday (Thursday) saw young people litter flowers from the beds around a seating area.

Officers are pledging to take action against the culprits, who caused the damage between 4pm and 6.30pm.

A spokesperson for Wellington Neighbourhood Policing said: "In recent weeks as lockdown restrictions have been relaxed there has been an increase in anti-social behaviour and criminal damage in the park, The Basins and in other areas of our town where groups of youths gatherings have caused criminal damage to flower beds, street furniture, shelters and more.

Image Wellington Neighbourhood Policing

Image Wellington Neighbourhood Policing

"Wellington Neighbourhood Policing Team would like to reassure residents that we have increased patrols of the affected areas and will not hesitate to disperse groups acting in an anti-social way and take positive action against any youths who are identified as being anti-social or to be responsible for a criminal offence

"We are also working in partnership with Somerset West and Taunton Council to identify those responsible and we will be contacting schools and youth groups across Wellington to ensure all young people understand that this behaviour will not be tolerated and if anyone is seen, named or identified causing damage to the park or in any other area of the town then action can and will be taken against them."

Anyone who has witnessed the damage being caused or has any information at all about who was present or involved they should speak to an officer from the team or call the police on 101 quoting crime reference number 5221093049.