CAMPAIGNING residents are celebrating after Winsford Town Council agreed to shut off an anti-social behaviour hotspot at night - though they may have to wait a while until it happens.

In January the Chronicle reported how vast numbers of youths were congregating at Over Recreational Park in Winsford and leaving the area a mess, as well as making it a 'no go' zone at night.

A petition was launched by Grange Residents' Association committee member Ray Whalley to lock the gates at night amid concerns over the danger of setting foot in the play area.

And at the council's meeting last week, it was announced the park could be locked at night to prevent a repeat of incidents which have led to several arrests over the past two years. Town Mayor Don Beck-ett told residents the council would also try to make the area an alcohol-free zone.

Mike Kennedy, chairman of the Grange Residents' Association, said: 'The council has been marvellous on this issue - it has come forward with a decision fairly quickly and are listening to our concerns.'

Despite the news, there was disappointment surrounding the amount of time it would take to fully implement the plan.

Mr Kennedy said: 'Nearby residents want a quick fix, but it may take another 12 months for it to happen.

'No measures have been agreed to keep people out of the park but they certainly won't be able to gain access to it.'

Ray Whalley added: 'We are finally getting somewhere, but the trouble is still there.

'We want to get it locked up as soon as possible but we will continue to monitor it in the meantime.' The park has been a problem for some time.

The most serious incident saw yobs attack a man in his mid-20s with a golf club as he walked through the park with a friend and an 11-year-old relative.

Nearly two years ago groundsman Colin Blakey was forced to leave the job he had enjoyed for 18 years after a vicious assault which saw him beaten so badly he suffered a fractured eye socket.

Vicious attacks aside, locals are fed up with the mess that is left behind by drinkers.

They leave numerous broken bottles, which residents have even decided to clear up themselves so children can play and they have been seen using the bowling green as a football pitch.

Mr Whalley said: 'I picked up 36 bottles in just one day.'