The Brewery Field behind Bridgwater Splash
HIDDEN away behind Bridgwater Splash, The Brewery Field has long been a haven for youngsters in the town to congregate in large numbers and let their hair down.
But reports of anti-social behaviour in the field have placed activities there under increased scrutiny.
The Mercury this week spoke to several residents living nearby who claimed to have been victims of physical abuse from gangs hanging around in the field after dark.
The resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "It's always big groups of people whenever I've walked across the field to come back to the house.
"If I'm on my own it is just verbal abuse, but if I'm with my mates it can sometimes end up with fights. Normally the people involved are quite drunk."
Other reports from residents targeted loud noise after dark, littering and graffiti as the main problems.
Neighbour Brendan Nicholas said: "I saw a chap roaring around in a car and revving for a couple of hours and this was about 11 at night.
"They congregate in large crowds and are noisy on occasions but my main complaint is the rubbish - they leave a large amount of rubbish around."
Neighbourhood watch co-ordinator Gwyn Thomas played down any problems, but stressed that youngsters must be given something proactive to do if the situation is to improve.
Gwyn said: "This year has not been so bad. Two years ago we had a meeting and things were very bad then.
"One thing they should have on the field is a cycle track or a skate park because the kids have nothing else to do."
PC Ryan Kelly told the Mercury: "I am not aware of any recent activities at the field, although anti-social behaviour, such as underage drinking, has been a problem in the past.
"We are always patrolling the area and if we see anything illegal we clamp down on it."
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