POLICE are warning of the dangers of trespassing after catching a group of youths on the roof of a derelict pub.

The dilapidated former Mermaid Hotel in Delamere Road, Handforth is earmarked for demolition.

Police officers have thanked a local resident for notifying them of youngsters trespassing onto the site on Monday, July 25.

READ > Tributes to Knutsford's 'Mr Toy Shop' for making dreams come true

In a message on social media, Handforth Police said: “Thank you to the local resident that contacted us to let us know of a group of youths that got onto the roof of the old Mermaid pub.

“Happy to report everyone is down safe and well, no damage was caused and everyone involved was spoken to and warned about their actions.

“They were all very polite and apologetic.

We are quite lucky really with the young people we have in Handforth.”

Red Oak Taverns received planning permission from Cheshire East Council on July 22 to build seven new homes on the land.

The former pub has lain empty since 2015 and according to neighbours has been ‘attracting squatters’.

Original plans to construct eight properties have been revised and reduced by one.

The derelict pub will now be bulldozed to make way for seven three-bed homes.

This will include two pairs of two-storey semi detached properties and three detached two storey houses.

A total of 14 parking spaces, two per property, will be created.