'Zero tolerance' call for park plagued by 'idiots'

A NEWCASTLE MP has hit out at “selfish idiots” behind rowdy scenes ina city park and has urged authorities to take urgent action.

- By DANIEL HOLLAND

Mary Glindon, the MP for Newcastle East and Wallsend, is calling for a “zero tolerance approach” to antisocial behaviour plaguing Walker Park.

She complained that “yobs” have been regularly setting off fireworks in the East End green space, which recently won back its prestigious Green Flag status, through the summer holidays.

The Chronicle understands there was a fire in the bin shed of the park's cafe on Sunday, August 24.

Mrs Glindon said Walker Park had suffered from antisocial behaviour for many years but that it had “worsened considerably over the summer”. She added: “Residents tell me that the police and local authorities have been slow on the uptake.

“I think this explains what seems like a slide into antisocial activity on an increasing scale.

“If you give an inch then selfish idiots will take a mile. I have convened a meeting between local people and the police to urge them to do more to stop the park being abused by yobs.