Boozers In Churchyard

A FORMER councillor is urging Castle Point Council to take action following claims of antisocial behaviour plaguing Hadleigh Church.

 Grievers in the grounds have allegedly been assailed by boozing yobs in large numbers at St James the Less church in the High Street, with residents claiming the sacred ground is now a magnet for drink, drugs and daytime fighting.

 Former Tory councillor Jacqui Thornton reportedly commented: “We have a congregation of people in the churchyard using benches, meeting up with drinks and alcohol involved, I have spoken to the warden of the church, and she is quite upset.

 “We definitely need to get something done there as it is a walkthrough for people, there are seats for people, and they are there for contemplation and if people are there to visit graves, it should be used as a pleasant walkthrough.

 “However, people are now intimidated, and the council must do something, the community is very upset about this and have been discussing what we can do to address this.

 “Do we need to stand guard there? It is very difficult, this is an elderly community, and it is not right.”

 Mrs Thornton added: “I am mindful of it, intimidation, day-drinking and drugs, and I feel that some kind of CCTV could be put there, but the area is also incredibly small.”

Picture: St James the Less church. Pic Google Maps.

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