Warning to youths amid drugs at Oxfordshire shopping centre

Thames Valley Police has said that it has been receiving multiple reports in relation to “youth-related anti-social behaviour” with The Orchard centre in Didcot a “hotspot”.

The Didcot and Wallingford Neighbourhood Police Team made an update about the issues faced on Sunday, May 31.

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A spokesperson said: “We’ve been making multiple enquiries relating to youth-related anti-social behaviour (ASB – behaviour causing harassment, alarm, or distress to others).

“The Orchard Centre continues to be a hotspot, particularly with the warmer weather drawing larger groups. ”

Among the issues raised are reports of drugs and nuisance behaviour, with the police also looking into motorbike riders causing noise, disruption and safety risks to others.

The force has warned parents to be aware of what their children are doing as the Summer holidays approach.

The spokesperson added: “Issues include nuisance behaviour and reports of cannabis use.

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“We’ve also received concerns about young motorbike riders using vehicles in an anti-social manner – causing noise, disruption, and safety risks to others.

“We’re actively working on these issues through patrols, engagement, and where necessary, enforcement.

“We’d encourage parents and guardians to be aware of where young people are and what they’re doing – especially as we head further into the summer months.”