DISTRESSED neighbours of a Swiss Cottage park are demanding action after a summer of sleepless nights. Residents living near the open space behind Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre are fed up with rowdy youths congregating in the early hours. They are calling

DISTRESSED neighbours of a Swiss Cottage park are demanding action after a summer of sleepless nights.

Residents living near the open space behind Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre are fed up with rowdy youths congregating in the early hours.

They are calling for the removal of benches and want the area closed at night.

"These teenagers spend the nights screaming with delight, shouting, bellowing and generally having a good time at our expense," said one woman, who asked not be named.

The park has just been designated as a dispersal zone, which gives police the power to move people on if they are causing problems. But residents say it is a matter for Camden Council to solve.

In a letter to the Town Hall, one wrote: "There is a complete lack of control developing in this park. It is time you looked at the situation and offered the neighbourhood a comprehensive plan of action to deal with the situation, rather than leaving it to the police, who we hope are dealing with serious crimes."

The council said very few complaints had been made over the past three years, but residents' views were being taken seriously.

"Swiss Cottage open space is extremely popular and we want as many people as possible to enjoy it, but not to the detriment of others," said a spokeswoman. "We are working closely with the police to tackle anti-social behaviour. The police have increased their patrols and we have also stepped up patrols."

To report anti-social behaviour to the Safer Neighbourhoods team call 020-8721 2755.