POLICE in Runcorn are urging parents to speak to their children following recent youth incidents.

Cheshire Police officers in the Halton Brook area have been patrolling after residents reported anti-social behaviour on rocks near Stenhills Playing Fields.

Officers found evidence of nitrous oxide abuse, drug taking and deliberate fires being lit.

They said this is a ‘recipe for disaster’ due to evidence of this occurring on the rocks, with a large drop below.

The force’s Halton Brook Police team said: “We have conducted foot patrol around the wooded area by the big rock at the bottom of Stenhills Playing Fields.

“Residents have complained about the noise and the amount of litter left when youths are gathering there.

“While litter and noise are not dealt with by police, there were a large number of concerning items left there by the youths – dozens of empty nitrous oxide containers and balloons, empty alcohol bottles and cans, and empty snap bags that likely contained cannabis and ketamine.

“There is also plenty of evidence of deliberate fires being lit.

“It is incredibly concerning that young people are taking such substances and putting themselves at risk, but doing so on top of a sheer drop is a recipe for disaster.

“Parents, if your kids hang out there, or even if you suspect they might, speak to them and advise them of the dangers. We will be keeping a close eye on the area.”