Isle of Wight beauty spot subject to anti-social behaviour

Police and the Isle of Wight Council say they will be upping visits to Hersey Nature Reserve, near Seaview, following a spate of recent incidents.

On one occasion, an Islander reported being verbally abused and threatened, and then followed back to her car.

The site, which is managed by the Isle of Wight Council, is home to a bird hide overlooking marshes and wildlife.

Cllr David Adams at Hersey Nature Reserve (Image: IWCP) Signs have been put up in the bird hide (Image: IWCP) Cllr David Adams, county councillor for Nettlestone and Seaview, told the County Press, anti-social behaviour has been occurring there, on and off, for around three and a half years.

He said the door and lock has been damaged two or three times and Nettlestone and Seaview Parish Council, and therefore taxpayers, have had to foot the bill.

On one visit, Cllr Adams said he discovered a syringe in the hide and often finds "the refuse from cannabis".

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When the County Press visited, the smell of smoke was evident, as was a scorch mark on the wall.

"It's very frustrating", Cllr Adams said.

"This should be a place of respite and rest for people to come down and get away from it all."

Inside the bird hide (Image: IWCP) The scorch mark on the wall (Image: IWCP) Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said concerns were raised to police earlier this month.

"It’s been reported that youths have used the hide to smoke cannabis, and have been verbally abusive to other members of the public using the hide", a spokesperson said.

"Police have since conducted a site visit with local parish council partners to explore deterrent methods for this type of behaviour, and police will also be routinely visiting and patrolling the area.

"If you visit the site and see police there, do not hesitate to come and speak to us about your experiences."

Signs have also been erected at the hide, informing those there they are 'being watched'.

Meanwhile, the Isle of Wight Council said it plans to carry out "random inspections".

Cllr David Adams outside the bird hide (Image: IWCP) Inside Hersey Nature Reserve (Image: IWCP) A spokesperson said: "In light of the alleged antisocial behaviour, the local authority would advise people to report any incidents to the police, and to be vigilant while visiting the area.”

Cllr Adams said those responsible should "take stock of what you're doing and the effect you're having on other people".

He said: "Why be offensive? There's no need for it. Stop using the hut. It's not that kind of place."

Police are urging Islanders to report incidents to 101.