SECURITY patrols in Malvern's Priory Park are being stepped-up following reports of young yobs intimidating theatregoers and leisure seekers.

Police were recently called to the park by Malvern Theatres staff when a group of youths on bikes refused to move from the rear steps of the building.

By the time police arrived, most of the youngsters had disappeared.

The following day, Malvern resident Josephine Bowen was verbally abused after confronting youths she claimed were pulling up plants and tormenting ducks.

"I find it staggering that only two days into their holidays, these young thugs are already behaving in such a manner and that there appears to be nobody around to stop them," she said.

"Surely it is possible for extra funding to be found so that Priory Park can have a park keeper or someone similar for the summer."

Sarah-Jane Browning, general manager at Malvern Theatres said customers felt intimidated.

"A lot of people think controlling the park is our responsibility but it's not our property, although we do what we can," she added.

Clive Smith, Malvern Hills portfolio holder for community well-being, said council and police presence had increased in the park during the summer holidays.

He said security patrols were taking place on Friday and Saturday nights.

Community safety officer Mark McKay said he patrolled the park for a week at the end of May, with PC Paul Lambon and planned to do so again soon.

"We reduced incidents of anti-social behaviour because we were able to engage with kids there," he said.

Mr McKay said the public should keep the council informed about the problem.

"Unless we are aware of difficulties, we can't react," he added.