Rangers installed at Needham Lake in Needham Market after anti-social behaviour

Rangers have been put in place at a Suffolk beauty spot which was targeted by anti-social behaviour.

In May, Suffolk Police received reports of a large gathering in the barbecue area at Needham Lake in Needham Market.

Witnesses said they saw ripped branches from trees and defecation in bushes.

A large amount of rubbish was also left behind at multiple overflowing bins.

Following the incident, patrols have been set up by the police, with Mid Suffolk Council confirming rangers have also been put in place to patrol the site during peak times.

A spokesperson for the council said it will help to keep the lake tidy.

“Things have settled down over the last few weeks and further steps are in place to help keep Needham Lake a safe and enjoyable place to visit,” they said.

Meanwhile, a security company visits the site during the weekends and the police are continuing to carry out regular patrols.

Work to upgrade the play equipment at the lake for the summer holidays has also started.

The spokesperson added: “We will continue to work together with the police to tackle the behaviour of those who threaten the enjoyment of the site for other visitors.

“We encourage visitors to report anti-social behaviour to the police.”