Petition presented to council (From Warrington Guardian)

Petition presented to council

A PETITION calling for Over Recreation Ground to be locked at night has been officially handed over to Winsford Town Council.

Ray Whalley, 46, of Pulford Road, started the petition after two men were assaulted with a baseball bat and golf club on the recreation ground last month.

In his speech to councillors he said: "Has someone got to be murdered before the council is going to do something about it?

"Children can't play there anymore and people are being assaulted walking through there.

"All parties have got to work to do something because it is a disgrace."

Clr Tony Hooton said: "This has to be looked at. It is a private footpath and not a public right of way so that would not stop it from being locked up. But we need to look at all the options."

The possibility of issuing a drinking ban in the area was also raised.

Clr Nick Harris said: "I have been trying for three years to get both of our parks alcohol free.

"We have got to ask some serious questions about this."

Clr Des Worthington also called for a ban on drinking.

He said: "I would like to see a drinking ban in the area but I would like to see that expanded to other parts of Winsford as well.

"This is something that is affecting residents and we should certainly look into this."