Extra patrols for popular park on banks of River Wear as school holidays begin

Regular police patrols are planned for a park which draws in hundreds of families from across the North East.
Riverside Park in Chester-le-Street. Image copyright Google Maps.Riverside Park in Chester-le-Street. Image copyright Google Maps.
Riverside Park in Chester-le-Street. Image copyright Google Maps.

Officers in Chester-le-Street say it will make frequent checks at Riveside Park in the town as the school break gets under way.

They have also issued a warning about the dangers of swimming in the River Wear.

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A spokesman for Durham Constabulary said: "As we are all aware, schools in the area are breaking up for the six week summer break this Friday.

Due to the amazing weather that we are currently experiencing, it is anticipated that youths will make their way to Riverside Park, Chester-le-Street.

"Patrols will be carried out by officers to ensure that youths are not causing issues to the community.

"High temperatures make it all too tempting for individuals to go for a swim in the River Wear.

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"We urge parents to advice their children on the dangers of swimming in this river unsupervised; and to remind them to have fun responsibly.

"Any antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated.

"Anyone causing any form of antisocial behaviour, from under-age drinking to setting fires, will be dealt with accordingly.

"The area will be regularly patrolled by officers during the summer break."

More information about what the park can offer visitors can be found here.