EIGHT youths were thrown out of Malvern's Priory Park in a bid to beat vandals.

The bandstand in the park was severely damaged last week and Malvern Hills District Council promised to set-up security patrols.

Safety officer Jenny Lawrence said they were determined to deal with vandalism at the town centre park.

As a result, eight youths riding bikes in the toddlers' play area were thrown out and had their names taken by park staff on Monday.

"Some grandparents had brought along their grandchildren to play there and they told us they felt intimidated and were driven away," she said. "We'll certainly be writing to their parents about it."

MHDC has formed a strategy group with the police, youth service and Malvern Theatres' management to tackle the problems.

Measures being considered are an increased presence by police or security patrols and the possibility of CCTV being extended to the park.

"We would like the support of parents in tackling these problems" said Ms Lawrence. We'll certainly not hesitate to prosecute or write letters to parents where appropriate."

l Police are studying CCTV pictures after two windows were smashed at Threshers, in Barnards Green, in separate incidents last week.