Police increase patrols after reports children were threatened at play park

POLICE are investigating reports of children being threatened at least twice at a Holbury play park.

Youngsters were said to have been targeted in incidents which took place at the Mary Drake play area, off Mary Drake Close, around 4pm last Wednesday and around 4.30pm on Saturday.

No further details about the nature of the threats were available from the Hampshire force as enquiries continue.

The offences have resulted in the play park being included in regular patrols carried out by officers from the Hardley neighbourhood policing team.

A post by local police on Facebook said: “We’re aware of reports in recent days whereby children have been threatened while using or in the vicinity of Mary Drake play area in Holbury.

“We are continuing to investigate these incidents and our officers will be patrolling this area as part of their regular patrols over the coming days.

“As always, if you do see our officers out and about please do come and say hello – we’re always happy to talk to you and hear what you’ve got to say.”

Officers are holding a socially distanced street meet event at the play park at 2pm on Saturday, when residents are invited to raise any concerns about issues in the community.

Anyone with information should contact Hampshire police on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.