POLICE in Sabden are to step up patrols around a beauty spot popular for outdoor sexual encoun-ters.

Officers issue a Facebook appeal to resid-ents to report any ‘inappropriate or anti-social behaviour’ in and around Black Hill Woods.

Patrols in the area are to be increased.

Posters were placed around the area warning that action will be taken against any people behaving inappropriately. although they have been torn down.

Letters are also being sent to residents and car registration plates are being recorded by police.

PC Sally Biggar said: “This is a long-standing problem for the area and goes on all day every day.

“There is a lot of apprehension in the village about going to the woods because of what goes on there.

“It is one of our top PACT priorities and any help from the community would be welcomed.

“We get a lot of complaints from resi-dents on this issue. The residents want the area back so they can walk their dogs in peace.”

Resident Bernard Parfitt, 70, of Pendleside Close, said: “People have stopped going there because of the behaviour.

“I can see the woods from my window and it’s a shame that it’s being spoilt. This has been going on for some time and I really hope that the police are able to make a change for the better in the area.

“People used to go up there in large numbers but that’s just not the case anymore.”

A police spokesman said: “Following complaints from local residents the local neighbourhood policing team has increased patrols in the area.

“Posters have been put up warning that action will be taken against any persons behaving inappropriately.

“We would encourage people to report inappropriate or anti-social behaviour by ringing 101.”