SECURITY is being stepped up at a popular recreation ground in Hartlepool in a £90,000 improvement scheme.

Hartlepool Borough Council is funding the works at Rift House "Rec" in a bid to curb vandalism and prevent damage to the sports pitches.

Extra window shutters and lights have been fitted to changing pavilions, while barriers will be put up to prevent motorcyclists and quad bikers getting on to the site.

New gates have been installed at the resurfaced park, in Kingsley Avenue, and similar works are to be carried out at another car park, off Westbrooke Avenue.

Richard Harland, the council's parks development officer, said: "Rift House Rec is a well used site and we are pleased to have been able to carry out the improvements.

"Hopefully, the work will ensure that visits by players and spectators are enjoyable."