Police to target anti-social behaviour at the River Wharfe in Ilkley after spike in incidents

A new police operation has been launched to tackle anti-social behaviour and crime at the Ilkley riverside.
By Rebecca Marano
Published 5th Aug 2020, 14:37 BST
Updated 5th Aug 2020, 14:42 BST
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Officers from the Keighley district will be tackling issues such as dangerous and illegal parking, BBQs, increased litter, anti-social behaviour, drug and alcohol use and water safety.

The operation has been launched after the recent hot weather caused a spike in incidents.

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It follows dramatic scenes back in May when hundreds flocked to the River Wharfe despite strict coronavirus lockdown measures at the time.

The scene in Ilkley back in May 2020. Picture Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com.The scene in Ilkley back in May 2020. Picture Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com.
The scene in Ilkley back in May 2020. Picture Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com.

Police officers be patrolling the area in and around Ilkley Riverside and Denton Road.

Inspector Adam Beecroft, of Keighley NPT, who is leading the operation, said: “Last year we ran a similar operation in Ilkley as a direct response to a number of incidents which occurred in and around the area related to anti-social behaviour.

“Following its success, throughout the next few months and with the upcoming hot weather, we will be replicating the operation to combat crime in and around the area.

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"Officers and our partner agencies will be in the vicinity, providing reassurance and targeting those who cause anti-social behaviour and are involved in criminality.

The aftermath after hundreds went to the Ilkley riverside in May. Picture Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com.The aftermath after hundreds went to the Ilkley riverside in May. Picture Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com.
The aftermath after hundreds went to the Ilkley riverside in May. Picture Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com.

“We want this space in Ilkley to remain a family friendly area and reassure residents and the wider community that anti-social behaviour or any criminality is not acceptable and it will be dealt with robustly."

Anyone who would like to report any incidents or has any information on ASB in their area, are urged to contact NPT teams via 101.

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Thank you

Laura Collins