It is a sorry state of affairs when a village has to employ a security guard because they do not feel fully supported by the police.

Residents near Phillimore Recreation Ground in Radlett have had to endure appalling behaviour from youngsters gathering in the open space and using threatening behaviour.

Unfortunately, youths congregating in parks late at night is not uncommon, and some serious action has to be taken to combat this.

But as well as discipline, youngsters must feel they have somewhere else safe and entertaining to go, which makes them feel part of the community.