A POPULAR beauty spot is being ruined by people who are gathering there to drink and cause disorder, say police.

The Star reported last night how officers were called to Colliers Moss in Bold on Wednesday afternoon following reports of a large group of youths drinking alcohol and listening to loud music.

Officers broke up the the group, arresting two young men – aged 18 and 19 – from Warrington on suspicion of a public nuisance offence.

Sound equipment was also seized.

There have been various reports of problems at the open space during lockdown, including drunkenness, arson and people swimming in open water.

Even though lockdown is now easing, police say they will still respond to reports of breaches of social distancing rules.

Community policing inspector Matt Drennan said: “Although members of the public are now permitted to meet in small groups outside, the government rules remain that people should continue to adhere to social distancing in order to protect the wider community.

“We know that the vast majority of people have continued to do this but I also want to make it clear that we will respond to reports of large groups of people forming and take action.

“Colliers Moss is a popular beauty spot which should be enjoyed by the majority. However a minority are choosing to spoil it by littering and (causing) anti-social behaviour and this will not be tolerated.

“We will continue to take positive action and I would continue to encourage the public to contact us if they are made aware of gatherings of this nature.”