PRIVATE security patrols are to continue in Priory Park after the once widespread litter and vandalism problems there have virtually disappeared.

"It's very, very quiet at the moment," said Richard Allison, estates and valuations officer for Malvern Hills District Council, adding that this could be partly due to the introduction of security patrols. Mr Allison said he was confident the money would be put aside to fund the patrols, which cost around £1,500 a year, in next year's MHDC budget.

"It's something we've got to continue doing and we can increase it if we need to," he said.