A RUBBISH-strewn area of Holmes Chapel has divided opinion about those responsible for the mess.

Police posted on Facebook a picture of an area off Sadler’s Close which was covered in bottles and rubbish.

A Police Community Support Officer said: “Unfortunately we have had an area in Holmes Chapel reported, where a group of young males and females have been congregating.

“As Community Support Officers we are very supportive for children in the community - however this is disgraceful and will not be tolerated.

“We will be patrolling this area frequently from now on and will deal robustly with anyone found involved.

“We are extremely upset to find the area like this, but are going to work with partner agencies to get it cleaned up and make sure it doesn't happen again.”

The picture and police views sparked numerous public comments.

Many of the views criticised those responsible for the litter, although some called for places for young people to go in the village.

One resident said: “The behaviour is getting worse. The park on Middlewich Road stinks of cannabis at weekends, and I've even seen used tampons left behind.”

Another said: “Rather than berate them constantly for being ‘teenagers’ maybe it would be an idea to have somewhere they can go?

“They aren’t welcome on the precinct, nor the parks. I’m not condoning bad behaviour or littering, but they don’t seem to be able to do anything. Where are they supposed to go?”

A fellow resident said: “Having nowhere to go doesn't give them an excuse to litter everywhere or behave the way they do. Even if they had somewhere to go they wouldn't use it.”

Another resident said: “There’s absolutely nothing out there for our teenagers - it's no wonder they get into mischief.

“If communities could engage them in a meaningful and constructive way that would reduce this litter, smoking and drinking.

“People need to see the bigger picture. Instead of moaning about it do something about to help the youngsters.

Other people criticised the litter-bugs: “There is plenty out there for those who wish to engage in it, but those who choose to drink under age and take drugs are not going to engage in them.”

“We were all young once, but I’m sure we never behaved like this.”

“Middlewich Road park was the same a few weeks ago. Rubbish everywhere, groups of youths smoking and playing loud music.”