POLICE are working with authorities in Ringwood following reports of drug taking and anti-social behaviour at Carvers recreation ground.

Concerns have been raised by staff at The Place youth centre following behaviour issues.

At Wednesday's recreation, leisure and open spaces meeting of Ringwood Town Council, members were told that two sessions at the facility, which is provided by the council, had to close early due to disruptive behaviour by a number of the young people who were attending.

The report drafted for the meeting by youth co-ordinator's Jenny Critchlow, stated: "This month we have struggled with young people’s substance use.

"Their behaviour when this impacts is extremely difficult to manage and when the staff, building or safety of young people are compromised we close."

Town Clerk Chris Wilkins said there is no "real hard issue", but both Ringwood School and the council had been contact with police.

Mr Wilkins said one of the incidents at The Place involved people climbing onto the roof of building, which he said was "putting themselves and others in danger."

A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said they had recent reports of anti-social behaviour and drug taking at Carvers recreation ground, and are working with their partners to tackle the issue.

Cllr Jeremy Heron, who is a member of The Place working party, said: "We're looking to work across the whole spectrum of young people in delivering the right support to the young people in what they need.

"There are going to be some challenging areas of the community, but we are doing the right thing by talking about it.

"You don't want to hear things like this. If you don't see it, you can't address any issues there may be.

"If we're not engaging with these young people we can't do anything about it."