A CONCERNED councillor has called for Burnley parks to be made an alcohol-free to get tough on teen yobs.

Coun Gordon Birtwistle said police should act after reports juveniles were terrorising elderly bowlers in Scott Park.

Police were called to the park on Wednesday after the ranger spotted a gang of around ten youngsters drinking and causing a nuisance.

Coun Birtwistle was at Wednesday night's executive meeting to ask Coun Linda Gauton, who is responsible for public protection and community safety, to implement a ban.

But she said the council were "unable" to impose blanket bans in every area where there were problems.

Coun Birtwistle said: "I was told that nothing can be done, which is nonsense. We could introduce a by-law to prevent drinking in public parks.

"As it stands, kids are doing what they want as there is nothing stopping them.

"There are two bowling greens in Scott Park used by senior citizens. This area has been taken over by a group of about 50 youngsters aged between 10 and 15 who terrorise the ladies.

"They ride their bikes along the green and have caused £20,000 worth of damage.

"They just drink and drink until they fall over."

Coun Birtwistle said the Cumbrian Way park also attracts trouble, with 80 youths using it as a weekend meeting point. Councillors now carry out patrols in the park.

Steve Hastings, technical officer for Burnley's parks, said: "We are certainly aware of the problems. We are working with the police and our park rangers, although we only have limited resources."

PC Tony Himycz, who patrols the area, carried out an operation two weeks ago to clamp down on the problem.

He said: "We are looking at CCTV cameras, which will cost £30,000. We need to find from a funding source. It would be great if the town alcohol ban could be extended."