POLICE have been asked to step up patrols around Ludgershall recreation ground after reports of youngsters drinking in the area over the summer holiday.

A used syringe was also found among many broken bottles.

Police Sgt Martin Phipps told the town council if the problem continued police could use test purchases to see if alcohol was being sold illegally by shops to people under-age.

Meanwhile the Disability Discrimination Act has forced the town council to abandon its comfortable council chambers and meet in a soon-to-be-demolished church hall after a disabled resident, Mrs Donna Pearce, complained about lack of access.

The move could cost Ludgershall council taxpayers a significant sum because the council will now have to hire a room for meetings. "Our new building will be disabled friendly but we have to take action to allow those who wish to, to attend - we can't discriminate," said council chairman Chris Williams.