Pig pong repels anti-social youths

Youths have turned their noses up at a woodland drink and drugs den after it was spread with pig dung.

Middlesbrough Council came up with the cheap but effective method of combating anti-social behaviour in woods at Coulby Newham.

It said residents had complained about young people smoking drugs in the area and, although there is a slight smell from the pig manure, locals "would much rather have a pong than a bong".

Elderly people nearby had been upset by youngsters congregating in the woodland between Willowbank and Stainton Way to drink and smoke.

Council staff thinned out the trees so the area was more visible from paths, then spread a thick layer of pig manure to deter the youngsters.

A council spokesman said: "Following complaints, an inspection of the area revealed it was being used to drink alcohol and take drugs, as paraphernalia known as bongs were found."

Since the muck-spreading, the area has been crime-free.

The spokesman added: "Feedback from the residents indicated that, although there was a slight whiff in Willowbank, they would much rather have a pong than a bong."

PA