PENSIONERS in a block of flats in Okehampton overlooking a recreational area by the River Ockment are appealing for something to be done about anti-social behaviour ruining their area.

The spot, just behind the Lidl store, has picnic tables and benches and a viewing area for public use at the confluence of the East and West Okement Rivers.

In May, the Ockment Rivers Improvement Group (ORIG) celebrated the completion of the picnic area and viewing platform in May after much hard work by the members. They were helped by grants from the Lottery, West Devon Borough Council, Okehampton Town Council and Okehampton United Charities.

But over the last few weeks youths have been congregating in the area, as have some people who are drunk.

Last Wednesday, the top of a table was set alight. The furniture has a line carving showing where the East and West Ockment rivers meet, and this was badly scorched. There was also litter and discarded alcohol bottles, cans and other rubbish.

Rodney Prentice, who lives in the retirement flats opposite, said the actions of those misusing the spot, was causing unnecessary concern, particularly for the elderly who have to witness and put up with bad behaviour.

He said: 'It's terrible. All they do is drink and cause problems and make themselves a nuisance.

'Since they started up we have noticed all the lovely wildlife have been driven off, if not killed.'

Mr Prentice, 79, says this has been happening anytime from 11am in to late at night.

'There's a sign up saying "show flats for sale." All I can say is people will be coming to visit Okehampton and will think twice about coming here again because they will look at that spot and leave with the impression that its a wino dump.'

Mr Prentice said he will be contacting the town council and Okehampton police to see what they could do.

Cllr David Weekes told the Times he was disappointed that such a nature spot was being abused: 'A lot of effort has gone into it, particularly by the rivers' group, so that people of all ages could enjoy this lovely area. I think it's absolutely shameful that it is being treated by a few people in such a disgraceful way.

'It used to be a problem area and those causing the nuisance eventually moved on, but it seems to be increasing again. It's a shame because it is such a lovely, natural area.'

Mr Weekes said he intended to bring up the issue at the next town council meeting.

Cllr Christine Marsh, the founder of ORIG, said the selfish actions of the few were spoiling it for the majority: 'I am disappointed that some people still continue to cause such unnecessary damage.

'A lot of people have said to me how much pleasure they have had just sitting down and enjoying being there, but this is being spoiled by a few thoughtless people.'

'Unfortunately, we have this minority who continue to ruin it for the majority.'

She said that as the spot had been designated a 'non-drinking area' under a local by-law then the police would be empowered to deal with those drinking alcohol who congregate there.

Cllr Marsh thanked the unknown person, who since the complaint, had taken the trouble to pick up the rubbish littering the area.

PC David Hoar, of Okehampton police, said officers were aware of the the ongoing situation and had spoken to the concerned elderly residents in the flats overlooking the spot.

'We will be talking to the town council and the ORIG on how to improve the situation and also be making extra patrols in the area.

'We urge people in the town to contact us immediately as soon as they see something going on there untoward, so we can respond and deal with the situation.'

l To contact the police, telephone 08452 777444 and ask for Okehampton Police Station.