Police to step up patrols at Leighton Recreation Centre to combat anti-social behaviour

Westbury police have been stepping up patrols at the Leighton Recreation Centre in recent weeks following reports of anti-social behaviour which they say is negatively affecting the cricket club who use the field.

The police say, “Following reports of antisocial behaviour, criminal damage and trespassing at Leighton Recreation Centre in Westbury, patrols have been upped in the area. There have been multiple reports of damage to equipment and outbuildings owned by Westbury and District Cricket Club, which is having a detrimental impact on the club.

“We are asking for local residents and users of the facilities to report any incidents to the police. If you witness an incident in progress, then please call 999.”

Recent incidents at the shared green space at Leighton have seen damage caused to their net system, shed locks broken, and graffiti sprayed on sponsorship boards.

Westbury and District Cricket Club is based at the Leighton Recreation Centre – a sports centre that is owned by Wiltshire Council. The club plays at the centre, but it does not own the area, and as a result it shares the space with the public.

The green spaces are maintained by the club which does not receive any outside funding to help with repairs caused by vandalism. The club has previously asked those that use the space to respect the ground so it can continue to be enjoyed by everyone.