YOUNGSTERS have returned to the once-popular play area following security improvements.

Children have flocked back to Ward Jackson Park, in Hartlepool, which has in recent years been plagued by anti-social behaviour and roaming dogs.

A black galvanised steel fence, costing £6,000, will keep wandering children safe and stray dogs out.

Youths, regularly seen riding around on bikes, will also be prevented from entering the play area.

Since the fence was installed, crowds of smiling children and their parents have flocked back, to enjoy playing in the park.

The fence was requested by the Friends of Ward Jackson Park, and has been paid for by a grant from the minor works budget of Hartlepool Borough Council's central neighbourhood consultative forum.

Hydraulic entrance gates have also been erected, which gently close automatically.

Peter Gowland, chairman of the friends group, said: "We are delighted that funding became available for this much-needed fencing around the play area. For many of the friends, it is proof positive that a small group can have a real effect.

"The new fencing will help prevent children wandering off, and stop dogs from coming in and fouling the area. It's a great improvement, and we look forward to continuing to work with the council in the future."

Covering 8.1 hectares, Ward Jackson Park was created with public money in 1883 to commemorate one of Hartlepool's greatest entrepreneurs, Ralph Ward Jackson.

The park is listed in the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens because of its collection of Victorian and Edwardian features, such as the bandstand (1901), the fountain (1902) and the lake, set in a Victorian landscape.

Councillor Lilian Sutheran, chairwoman of the forum, and ward councillor, said: "The safety and happiness of our youngsters is paramount.

"It creates a more secure area, which I'm sure will be much appreciated by parents and families."

She added: "For years, the park went downhill, and we had problems with kids riding bikes, and with dogs.

"The fence means parents can go along with their children to a safe environment. The recent nice weather has seen the park full, which was what we wanted to achieve."